Inklingo

How to Say "crippled" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cojo

KOH-hohˈko.xo

adjectiveB1less common, can be offensive
Use 'cojo' to describe someone or something that is limping or has a physical impairment affecting their ability to walk, but avoid it if you want to be extremely sensitive or formal.
A young boy struggling to walk while leaning heavily on a wooden crutch.

Examples

El perro estaba cojo después de la caída.

The dog was limping after the fall.

Esta silla está coja; no te sientes en ella.

This chair is wobbly; don't sit on it.

Se levantó y se fue, aunque parecía un poco cojo.

He got up and left, even though he seemed a little lame.

Adjective Agreement

Like most Spanish adjectives, 'cojo' changes its ending to match the thing it describes: 'cojo' (masculine singular), 'coja' (feminine singular), 'cojos' (masculine plural), 'cojas' (feminine plural).

inválido

adjectiveB1older and can be considered offensive depending on tone
Use 'inválido' to describe someone who is permanently disabled, often due to an accident or illness, but be aware that this term is considered old-fashioned and potentially offensive.

Examples

Quedó inválido después del accidente de coche.

He was left disabled after the car accident.

Offensiveness of 'Cojo' vs. 'Inválido'

Learners often confuse 'cojo' and 'inválido' regarding their offensiveness. While both can be insensitive, 'inválido' is generally considered more outdated and potentially offensive due to its historical connotations of being 'without value'. 'Cojo' is more about limping or a specific physical issue, but can still be perceived negatively.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.