How to Say "arrogance" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “arrogance” is “orgullo” — use 'orgullo' when the arrogance stems from an excessive sense of self-esteem or pride, often leading to stubbornness or an unwillingness to admit fault.
orgullo
or-GOO-yohoɾˈɣuʎo
Examples
Su orgullo le impide pedir disculpas.
His arrogance prevents him from apologizing.
El orgullo fue la causa de su caída.
Conceit (or: hubris) was the cause of his downfall.
Parece que tiene demasiado orgullo para aceptar ayuda.
It seems he has too much pride (arrogance) to accept help.
Orgullo vs. Ego
When referring to a negative, inflated sense of self-importance, 'orgullo' is often interchangeable with 'ego' in Spanish, though 'orgullo' carries a stronger sense of stubbornness.
arrogancia
ah-rro-GAHN-syaharoˈɡansja
Examples
Su arrogancia hizo que perdiera a todos sus amigos.
His arrogance caused him to lose all his friends.
No soporto la arrogancia de los políticos que no escuchan al pueblo.
I can't stand the arrogance of politicians who don't listen to the people.
A pesar de su éxito, nunca mostró ni un rastro de arrogancia.
Despite her success, she never showed even a trace of arrogance.
Always Feminine
Even though it refers to a personality trait that anyone can have, the word itself ends in '-ia' and is always feminine. You must use 'la' or 'una' with it.
Using 'Tener' vs 'Ser'
In Spanish, you say someone 'has' arrogance ('tiene arrogancia') to describe the trait, or that they 'are' arrogant ('es arrogante') using the describing word form.
Confusing with 'Orgullo'
Mistake: “Using 'arrogancia' to mean 'proud of an achievement'.”
Correction: Use 'orgullo' for positive pride. 'Arrogancia' is almost always negative and implies looking down on others.
Orgullo vs. Arrogancia
Related Translations
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