Inklingo

How to Say "prank" in Spanish

English → Spanish

broma

/BRO-mah//ˈbɾoma/

nounA2informal
Use 'broma' for a general, lighthearted joke or jest that is not meant to cause harm or serious offense.
A colorful storybook illustration showing two cartoon characters, one covering their mouth trying not to laugh, and the other character smiling widely after having played a playful trick.

Examples

Solo era una broma, no te enfades.

It was just a joke, don't get angry.

Le gastamos una broma a nuestro profesor por su cumpleaños.

We played a prank on our teacher for his birthday.

¿Lo dices en serio o es una broma?

Are you serious or is it a joke?

Always Feminine: 'la broma'

'Broma' is a feminine word, so you always use feminine words like 'la', 'una', 'esta', or 'mucha' with it. For example, 'una broma buena' (a good joke).

'Broma' vs. 'Chiste'

Mistake: “Quiero decirte una broma.”

Correction: Quiero contarte un chiste. A 'chiste' is a structured joke you tell, like a 'knock-knock' joke. A 'broma' is more general and can be a situation, a comment, or a prank.

cargada

/kar-GAH-dah//kaɾˈɡaða/

nounB2informal
Use 'cargada' for a prank or teasing that is more direct, often involving a bit of playful mockery or a practical joke.
A colorful gift box that pops open to reveal a spring-loaded toy snake.

Examples

No te enojes, fue solo una cargada.

Don't get mad, it was just a prank/joke.

Using 'una' with cargada

When used as a noun meaning a joke, always include 'una' or 'la' before it.

Broma vs. Cargada

Learners often confuse 'broma' and 'cargada'. While 'broma' is a very common word for any kind of joke, 'cargada' specifically refers to a prank or teasing. If your 'prank' involves making fun of someone playfully, 'cargada' might be more precise.

Related Translations

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