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How to Say "bastard" in Spanish

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desgraciado

dess-grah-SYAH-doh/des.ɣɾaˈsja.ðo/

nounC1strong derogatory term
Use this term when referring to someone who has acted despicably or caused significant misfortune, often with a strong sense of moral outrage.
A simplistic, shadowy figure with a shifty expression quickly walking away while holding a small, stolen pouch behind their back, symbolizing a scoundrel.

Examples

¡Ese desgraciado me mintió sobre el trato y se quedó con todo!

That scoundrel lied to me about the deal and kept everything!

No le hables, es un desgraciado que solo busca aprovecharse de la gente.

Don't talk to him, he's a despicable person who only looks to take advantage of people.

Used as a Noun

In this context, 'desgraciado' acts as a name for a person, so it usually needs an article before it (el desgraciado, un desgraciado).

perro

/PEH-rroh//'pero/

nounB2strong insult
Employ this word as a harsh insult for someone untrustworthy or morally corrupt, implying they are mean-spirited or treacherous.
A cartoonish man with a sly, untrustworthy expression, wearing a dark coat and looking over his shoulder conspiratorially, symbolizing deceit or a despicable character.

Examples

No confíes en él, es un perro.

Don't trust him, he's a dog/jerk.

¡Qué perro! Me mintió todo el tiempo.

What a dog! He lied to me the whole time.

Using the Feminine Form 'Perra'

Mistake: “Thinking 'perra' is a simple equivalent insult for a woman.”

Correction: Be extremely careful. While 'perro' is a strong insult for a man, 'perra' is a much more offensive and vulgar insult for a woman, often with strong sexual connotations. It's best to avoid using it entirely.

Choosing Between 'Desgraciado' and 'Perro'

Learners often confuse 'desgraciado' and 'perro'. While both are strong insults, 'desgraciado' implies a greater sense of misfortune caused and moral condemnation, whereas 'perro' is a more direct, albeit equally harsh, insult focused on treachery or meanness.

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