How to Say "bully" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “bully” is “matón” — use 'matón' for someone who physically intimidates or aggressively bullies others, often in a school or workplace setting.
Use 'matón' for someone who physically intimidates or aggressively bullies others, often in a school or workplace setting.
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Use 'acosador' for someone who harasses or stalks another person, especially in the context of 'acosador escolar' (school bully/harasser).
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Examples
El matón de la clase siempre se burlaba de los más pequeños.
The class bully always made fun of the smaller kids.
ah-ko-sah-DORakozaˈðoɾ
Examples
El acosador fue identificado gracias a las cámaras de seguridad.
The stalker was identified thanks to the security cameras.
Es importante denunciar a cualquier acosador en el lugar de trabajo.
It is important to report any harasser in the workplace.
Las redes sociales tienen herramientas para bloquear a un acosador.
Social networks have tools to block a stalker.
Changing for Gender
To talk about a female stalker or harasser, simply change the ending to 'acosadora'.
Using the word with 'ser'
Since being a stalker is considered a characteristic or an identity in a sentence, use the verb 'ser' (to be) rather than 'estar'.
Using 'Bully' vs 'Acosador'
Mistake: “Using the English word 'bully' in formal Spanish writing.”
Correction: Use 'acosador escolar' to sound more natural and professional in Spanish.
Matón vs. Acosador
Learners often confuse 'matón' and 'acosador'. Remember that 'matón' leans towards physical intimidation and aggression, while 'acosador' implies persistent harassment or stalking. Choose 'matón' for a classic schoolyard bully and 'acosador' for someone who systematically harasses.
Related Translations
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