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How to Say "gay" in Spanish

English → Spanish

homosexual

oh-moh-sek-soo-AHL/omo.sekˈswal/

adjectiveB2formal/neutral
Use this term when formally or neutrally describing a person's sexual orientation, especially when referring to men.
Two identical, stylized figures holding hands under a large red heart, symbolizing same-sex orientation.

Examples

La pareja homosexual celebró su aniversario.

The homosexual couple celebrated their anniversary.

Existe mucha literatura homosexual moderna.

There is a lot of modern homosexual literature.

Adjective Form

This adjective is special because it does not change its ending based on gender. It is used for both masculine ('un hombre homosexual') and feminine ('una mujer homosexual') nouns. It only changes form when plural: 'homosexuales'.

homo

/oh-moh//ˈomo/

adjectiveB2informal/neutral
This is an informal and somewhat dated adjective used to refer to gay culture or media, often in a slightly detached or academic way.
Two men walking side by side in a park, holding hands and smiling.

Examples

Es una película del circuito de cine homo.

It is a movie from the homo cinema circuit.

El activismo homo ha crecido mucho en esta ciudad.

Homo activism has grown a lot in this city.

Shortened Words

Just like 'tele' is short for 'televisión', 'homo' is sometimes used as a shorthand for 'homosexual' in specific social groups.

Sensitivity

Mistake: “Using 'homo' in formal settings.”

Correction: Use 'homosexual' or 'gay'.

maricón

nounC2vulgar/reclaimed
This word is a highly offensive slur but can be reclaimed and used neutrally or affectionately within certain LGBTQ+ communities, particularly in Spain; use with extreme caution.

Examples

Le gritaron insultos como «maricón» en la calle.

They shouted insults like 'faggot' at him in the street.

Avoid using 'maricón' outside of reclaimed contexts

The most common mistake is using 'maricón' without understanding its deeply offensive nature as a slur. While it can be reclaimed, it's crucial to avoid using it unless you are part of the LGBTQ+ community and aware of the specific social context, as it's otherwise highly insulting.

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