How to Say "lean" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “lean” is “flaco” — A1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Mi hermano es muy flaco porque hace mucho deporte.
My brother is very thin because he does a lot of sports.
Estás más flaco que la última vez que te vi.
You are thinner than the last time I saw you.
Prefiero comprar carne flaca para la cena.
I prefer to buy lean meat for dinner.
Choosing Between 'Ser' and 'Estar'
Use 'ser' if the person is naturally thin. Use 'estar' if you want to say someone looks thin today or has recently lost weight.
Matching the Gender
Don't forget to change the ending! Use 'flaco' for men/masculine things and 'flaca' for women/feminine things.
Flaco vs. Delgado
Mistake: “Using 'flaco' in a formal doctor's report.”
Correction: Use 'delgado'. 'Flaco' is common but 'delgado' is more polite and professional.
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.