Inklingo

How to Say "nosy" in Spanish

English → Spanish

averiguado

ah-beh-ree-GWAH-doh/aβeɾiˈɣwaðo/

adjectiveB2
Use 'averiguado' to describe someone who habitually pries into or investigates other people's business, often in a somewhat intrusive but not necessarily malicious way.
A person peeking through a small gap in a wooden garden fence.

Examples

Ese vecino es un averiguado; siempre está mirando por la ventana.

That neighbor is so nosy; he's always looking through the window.

metido

meh-TEE-doh/meˈtiðo/

adjectiveB2pejorative
Use 'metido' when you want to express a strong negative opinion about someone who meddles in or gets involved in other people's business, often seen as annoying or unwelcome.
A cartoon character with a curious and slightly mischievous expression stealthily peeking over a tall wooden fence, trying to eavesdrop on a secret.

Examples

Odio a la vecina, es muy metida y siempre pregunta todo.

I hate the neighbor, she is very nosy and always asks about everything.

No seas metido y déjanos hablar en privado.

Don't be interfering and let us talk privately.

Permanent Trait

When 'metido' describes a personality trait (nosy, interfering), you use the verb 'ser' ('Ella es metida'), because this is seen as a characteristic of the person.

Choosing between 'averiguado' and 'metido'

Learners often confuse 'averiguado' and 'metido'. Remember that 'averiguado' is a more neutral description of someone who investigates, while 'metido' is a stronger, pejorative term for someone who meddles unpleasantly.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.