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How to Say "big shot" in Spanish

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personaje

per-soh-NA-hehpeɾsoˈnaxe

nounB1informal
Use 'personaje' for an influential or notable person, often in a specific field like local politics or a community, implying importance and recognition.
A colorful storybook illustration of a distinguished person wearing a dark business suit standing confidently behind a wooden podium, representing a notable public figure.

Examples

Es un personaje influyente en la política local.

He is an influential figure in local politics.

Ese señor es un personaje, siempre cuenta historias increíbles.

That man is quite a character; he always tells incredible stories.

Figurative Use

When used in this sense, 'personaje' often implies the person has a strong, distinctive, or sometimes eccentric personality, making them memorable like a character in a story.

pope

PO-pehˈpope

nounC1informal
Use 'pope' to describe someone who is considered the ultimate authority or leader in a particular field, especially in business or industry, signifying dominance.
A conductor leading a large orchestra with a baton.

Examples

Él es considerado el pope de la industria tecnológica en el país.

He is considered the leading figure of the tech industry in the country.

No es fácil impresionar a los popes del mundo del arte.

It is not easy to impress the big shots of the art world.

El gran pope de la moda dio su aprobación a la nueva colección.

The fashion guru gave his approval to the new collection.

Masculine Ending

Even though it ends in 'e', this word is always masculine ('el pope'). It doesn't change to 'popa' for women.

Pope vs. Papa

Mistake: “Using 'el Pope' to talk about the head of the Catholic Church.”

Correction: Use 'el Papa' for the Catholic leader. 'Un pope' refers to an Orthodox priest or a symbolic leader in a professional field.

Personaje vs. Pope

Learners often confuse 'personaje' and 'pope' by using 'pope' too broadly. Remember that 'pope' specifically implies being the absolute top authority in a field, like a king or queen, whereas 'personaje' is more about general influence and being a well-known figure.

Related Translations

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