Inklingo

How to Say "coward" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cobarde

koh-BAR-deh/koˈβarðe/

nounA2general
Use 'cobarde' for a direct and general translation of 'coward', suitable for most situations when describing someone lacking courage.
A simple cartoon character with wide, fearful eyes running away rapidly, looking over their shoulder in panic, despite the path ahead being clear and sunny.

Examples

No seas un cobarde y enfrenta tus miedos de una vez.

Don't be a coward and face your fears right away.

Todos la llamaron cobarde cuando se negó a saltar.

Everyone called her a coward when she refused to jump.

Matching the person

When 'cobarde' refers to a person (the noun), you must match the article to the person's gender: 'el cobarde' (male) or 'la cobarde' (female).

Mixing the article

Mistake: “Ella es un cobarde.”

Correction: Ella es una cobarde.

gallina

/gah-YEE-nah//ɡaˈʎina/

nounB1informal
Choose 'gallina' for a more informal and slightly milder way to call someone a coward, often used among friends or to express playful disapproval.
A small, worried child hiding partially behind a large rock, looking out with a fearful expression.

Examples

¡No seas gallina! Tienes que decirle la verdad.

Don't be a coward! You have to tell her the truth.

Él es una gallina; nunca se atreve a probar nada nuevo.

He is a chicken; he never dares to try anything new.

Fixed Gender Insult

When used to mean 'coward,' 'gallina' is always feminine, even if you are talking about a man. You say 'Él es una gallina,' not 'un gallino'.

ratón

nounB1informal
Use 'ratón' as a figurative insult, similar to 'scaredy-cat' or 'fraidy-cat', to describe someone who is timid or easily scared, especially in situations requiring bravery.

Examples

¡No seas un ratón! Atrévete a probar la montaña rusa.

Don't be a scaredy-cat! Dare to try the roller coaster.

General vs. Informal Terms

The most common mistake is using the informal 'gallina' or 'ratón' in formal settings where 'cobarde' would be more appropriate. While 'cobarde' is a direct translation, 'gallina' and 'ratón' are more colloquial and can sound overly harsh or out of place if not used with friends.

Related Translations

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