Inklingo

How to Say "little devil" in Spanish

English → Spanish

diablo

DEE-ah-bloh/ˈdja.βlo/

nounB2informal
Use 'diablo' when referring to a naughty child in an affectionate or exasperated way, highlighting their tendency to get into mischief.
A mischievous-looking young boy with a playful smirk, holding a slingshot behind his back, illustrating a rascal.

Examples

Ese niño es un diablo, siempre está haciendo travesuras.

That kid is a rascal; he’s always getting into mischief.

Tienes que ser un diablo en los negocios para tener éxito.

You have to be a rogue (clever operator) in business to succeed.

Using the Feminine

To refer to a mischievous woman or girl, the word is often changed to 'diabla' (la diabla), although 'diablo' can sometimes refer to either gender contextually.

demonio

deh-MOH-nee-oh/deˈmonjo/

nounB2informal
Choose 'demonio' to describe a child who is particularly energetic and mischievous, often in a way that involves a lot of physical activity or boisterousness.
A storybook illustration showing a young child with a wide, mischievous smile and bright eyes, playfully hiding a toy behind their back.

Examples

Mi hijo es un demonio, siempre está saltando sobre los muebles.

My son is a little devil; he is always jumping on the furniture.

Trabaja como un demonio para terminar el proyecto a tiempo.

He works like a demon (very hard) to finish the project on time.

¡Qué coche tan rápido! Va como un demonio.

What a fast car! It goes like a bat out of hell (very fast).

The 'Demonios' Expression

When used in questions like '¿Qué demonios dices?' (What the heck are you saying?), 'demonio' acts as an intensifier, showing annoyance or surprise, similar to saying 'hell' or 'heck' in English.

Literal Translation

Mistake: “Using 'demonio' in a formal setting just to mean 'very fast' or 'very hard.'”

Correction: Use this meaning only in informal or passionate conversations, as it is highly colloquial. In formal settings, use 'rápidamente' (quickly) or 'arduamente' (arduously).

Diablo vs. Demonio for 'Little Devil'

Learners often confuse 'diablo' and 'demonio' because both can mean a mischievous child. Remember that 'diablo' is generally more common and often carries a stronger sense of affectionate exasperation with naughtiness, while 'demonio' tends to emphasize high energy and boisterous behavior.

Related Translations

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