Inklingo

How to Say "revulsion" in Spanish

English → Spanish

asco

ahs-kohˈasko

nounA2general
Use 'asco' when the revulsion is primarily physical, like a strong feeling of disgust caused by something unpleasant to see, smell, or taste, or a deep moral repulsion.
A simple drawing of a face showing an expression of extreme revulsion and disgust.

Examples

El olor a pescado podrido me dio mucho asco.

The smell of rotten fish gave me a lot of disgust (made me feel sick).

¡Qué asco! No puedo creer que comiste eso.

How disgusting! I can't believe you ate that.

Siento asco por la crueldad animal.

I feel loathing (disgust) for animal cruelty.

Expressing Disgust (The 'Dar' Trick)

To say 'I am disgusted by X,' Spanish usually uses the verb 'dar' (to give) with the structure of 'Me da asco X' (X gives me disgust). It works just like 'gustar' (to like).

Using 'Estar' Incorrectly

Mistake: “Estoy asco.”

Correction: Me da asco. 'Asco' is a noun, not an adjective. You wouldn't say 'I am disgust.' Use 'Me da asco' (It gives me disgust) or 'Siento asco' (I feel disgust).

náusea

nounB2general
Choose 'náusea' when the revulsion is more about a feeling of extreme distaste or a profound sense of horror, often towards something abstract like behavior or ideas.

Examples

Su hipocresía me da náusea.

His hypocrisy makes me sick.

Physical vs. Abstract Disgust

Learners often confuse 'asco' and 'náusea' because both express strong disgust. Remember that 'asco' is more common for physical revulsion (like bad smells), while 'náusea' is better suited for more abstract or moral revulsion, like being disgusted by someone's actions.

Related Translations

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