Inklingo

How to Say "harassing" in Spanish

English → Spanish

acosador

/ah-ko-sah-DOR//akozaˈðoɾ/

adjectiveB2informal
Use 'acosador' when describing something or someone that intentionally bothers, intimidates, or makes someone feel uncomfortable, often with a persistent or menacing quality.
A small, frustrated bird being followed and chirped at by a larger, persistent bird.

Examples

Me lanzó una mirada acosadora antes de irse.

He gave me a harassing look before leaving.

No me gusta su comportamiento acosador con los clientes.

I don't like his pestering behavior with the customers.

El ritmo acosador de la ciudad puede ser agotador.

The relentless/harassing pace of the city can be exhausting.

Adjective Agreement

Remember that if the thing you are describing is feminine (like 'mirada' - look), the word must change to 'acosadora'.

Placement with Nouns

Mistake:Placing 'acosador' before the noun usually sounds poetic or strange.

Correction: Always place it after the noun, like 'un hombre acosador' (a harassing man).

persiguiendo

/per-si-gyen-do//peɾsiˈɣjen̪d̪o/

verb (gerund)B2
Use 'persiguiendo' when the focus is on the continuous action of following or hounding someone, especially with questions or demands, implying relentless pursuit.
An illustration showing a single, dejected figure isolated in the middle of an empty playground while three other figures stand nearby, looking judgmental, symbolizing persecution or unfair treatment.

Examples

Los periodistas estaban persiguiendo al político con preguntas difíciles.

The journalists were hounding the politician with difficult questions.

El grupo sentía que el régimen los estaba persiguiendo por sus creencias.

The group felt the regime was persecuting them for their beliefs.

Serious Context

This meaning is often used in serious discussions about human rights, politics, or justice, indicating systematic unfair treatment.

Adjective vs. Continuous Action

Learners often confuse 'acosador' and 'persiguiendo' by using the adjective 'acosador' when they mean the ongoing action of 'persiguiendo'. Remember, 'acosador' describes a quality of being harassing, while 'persiguiendo' describes the act of harassing someone.

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