Inklingo

How to Say "madhouse" in Spanish

English → Spanish

manicomio

mah-nee-KOH-myohmaniˈkomjo

nounB2informal
Use this word when referring to a place that is extremely chaotic, noisy, or disorganized, often in a humorous or exaggerated way.
A messy and chaotic room filled with colorful toys, a spilled bucket of paint, and pillows scattered everywhere.

Examples

¡Esta oficina es un manicomio los lunes por la mañana!

This office is a madhouse on Monday mornings!

Con cinco niños gritando, la casa era un manicomio.

With five kids screaming, the house was a madhouse.

Using 'Ser' for Descriptions

When saying a place 'is' a madhouse, always use the verb 'ser' (es un manicomio) because you are describing the nature of the situation at that moment.

burdel

boor-DELbuɾˈðel

nounC1informal
Use this word to describe a place that is in complete disarray and utter chaos, often implying a mess that is difficult to control.
A very messy room with toys, pillows, and clothes scattered everywhere in a state of total chaos.

Examples

¡Tu habitación parece un burdel! Hay ropa por todos lados.

Your room looks like a madhouse! There is clothes everywhere.

Con todos los niños gritando, la cena fue un burdel.

With all the kids screaming, dinner was total chaos.

Comparison Use

In this sense, it is almost always used with the verb 'parecer' (to seem) to describe a room or situation.

Regional Preference

Choosing Between 'Manicomio' and 'Burdel'

Learners often confuse 'manicomio' and 'burdel' when translating 'madhouse'. While both denote chaos, 'manicomio' is more generally applied to noisy, disorganized situations like busy offices or parties. 'Burdel' often implies a more extreme, messy disarray.

Related Translations

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