Inklingo

How to Say "conceit" in Spanish

English → Spanish

orgullo

or-GOO-yoh/oɾˈɣuʎo/

nounB1general
Use 'orgullo' when referring to excessive self-esteem or vanity that makes someone unwilling to admit fault or apologize.
A character stands alone with their nose elevated and chest puffed out, displaying a haughty, dismissive attitude towards the empty space around them.

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.

humo

/oo-moh//ˈumo/

nounB2informal
Use 'humo' to describe empty boasting, exaggerated claims, or a general lack of substance, often associated with someone trying to impress without real merit.
A cartoonish figure stands boastfully, gesturing dramatically, while thin, dissipating puffs of smoke (representing empty promises or hot air) float away from their open mouth.

Examples

Ese candidato solo vende humo, no tiene planes reales.

That candidate is just selling hot air (making empty promises), he has no real plans.

Desde que lo ascendieron, el humo se le ha subido a la cabeza.

Since he was promoted, the conceit has gone to his head (he has become arrogant).

Figurative Meaning

This meaning uses 'humo' because smoke is insubstantial and disappears quickly, symbolizing something that sounds impressive but has no real value.

Orgullo vs. Humo

Learners often confuse 'orgullo' and 'humo' when translating 'conceit'. Remember that 'orgullo' focuses on personal vanity and an unwillingness to yield, while 'humo' points to insubstantial claims or boastfulness.

Related Translations

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