How to Say "chickened out" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “chickened out” is “arrugado” — C1 level.
English → SpanishC1
adjectiveC1informal
someone who got scared
Examples
Iba a saltar, pero al final se quedó arrugado.
He was going to jump, but in the end he chickened out.
No te quedes arrugado frente al jefe.
Don't let yourself get intimidated in front of the boss.
Describing a Feeling
When used for people, it describes a person who has 'shrunk' metaphorically due to fear.
Literal vs. Figurative
Mistake: “Using this in a formal business meeting in Spain.”
Correction: In formal settings or in Spain, use 'intimidado' instead. 'Arrugado' for people is very informal and regional.
Related Translations
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