Inklingo

How to Say "hang-up" in Spanish

English → Spanish

complejo

kom-PLE-hokomˈplexo

nounB2informal
Use 'complejo' when the 'hang-up' is a deep-seated, often irrational worry or insecurity that significantly impacts a person's self-esteem or behavior.
A storybook illustration of a small, timid person struggling to carry a huge, heavy dark gray rock strapped to their back.

Examples

Tiene un complejo de inferioridad porque siempre se compara con su hermano.

He has an inferiority complex because he always compares himself to his brother.

Ella no quiere cantar porque tiene complejo con su voz.

She doesn't want to sing because she has a hang-up about her voice.

Using 'Tener'

To express that someone has a psychological complex, you use the verb 'tener' (to have): 'Tengo un complejo' (I have a complex).

fijación

nounB1informal
Choose 'fijación' when the 'hang-up' is an obsessive or strong preoccupation with a particular person, object, or activity, often to an unhealthy degree.

Examples

Él tiene una fijación con los videojuegos antiguos.

He has a fixation with old video games.

Complejo vs. Fijación

Learners often confuse 'complejo' and 'fijación' because both imply an unhealthy focus. Remember that 'complejo' relates more to a general insecurity or complex about oneself, while 'fijación' is a more specific, intense obsession with something external.

Related Translations

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