How to Say "miserly" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “miserly” is “mezquino” — B1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
No seas mezquino y deja una buena propina.
Don't be stingy and leave a good tip.
Es un hombre rico, pero muy mezquino con su familia.
He is a rich man, but very miserly with his family.
Nos dieron una ración mezquina de comida.
They gave us a paltry serving of food.
Gender and Number
This word must match the person or thing it describes. Use 'mezquino' for a man or masculine object, and 'mezquina' for a woman or feminine object.
Mezquino vs. Tacaño
Mistake: “Using 'mezquino' for just a regular 'cheap' person.”
Correction: While they are similar, 'mezquino' sounds more formal and often implies the person is morally small-minded, not just careful with money.
Related Translations
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