How to Say "messed up" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “messed up” is “arruinó” — use this verb when 'messed up' refers to spoiling or ruining something, like plans, an event, or a reputation..
arruinó
Examples
Su mal humor arruinó la cena para todos.
His bad mood spoiled dinner for everyone.
estropeado
/es-tro-peh-AH-doh//estɾopeˈaðo/
Examples
No puedo enviarte el archivo porque mi ordenador está estropeado.
I can't send you the file because my computer is broken.
El ascensor lleva estropeado toda la semana.
The elevator has been out of order all week.
Changing the Ending
Since this word acts as a description, you must change the ending to 'estropeada' if you are talking about a feminine object like 'una silla' (a chair).
Using with 'Estar'
Always use the verb 'estar' (to be) with this word because it describes a condition or a state that changed, rather than a permanent characteristic.
Don't use 'Ser'
Mistake: “La radio es estropeada.”
Correction: La radio está estropeada. Use 'estar' because the radio wasn't born broken; it's just in that state right now.
Ruined vs. Broken
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