Inklingo

How to Say "sluggish" in Spanish

English → Spanish

lento

LEN-toh/'len.to/

adjectiveB1
Use 'lento' when referring to the slow performance of technology, systems, or processes.
A simple cartoon desktop computer unit sitting on a desk, illustrated with a large drop of sweat rolling down its side, symbolizing struggling and sluggish performance.

Examples

Mi conexión a internet está muy lenta hoy, no puedo descargar nada.

My internet connection is very sluggish today, I can't download anything.

Es un poco lento para captar las indirectas.

He is a bit slow to get the hints.

Permanent vs. Temporary Slowness

Mistake: “Using *estar* for inherent mental slowness (e.g., *Mi hijo está lento*).”

Correction: If you mean a person is naturally slow-witted, use *ser*: *Mi hijo es lento*. Use *estar* only to describe a temporary condition, like a slow internet connection (*Mi wifi está lenta*).

perezoso

/peh-reh-SOH-soh//peɾeˈsoso/

adjectiveA1informal
Use 'perezoso' when describing a person who is slow to move or react, often implying laziness.
A person lying comfortably in a colorful hammock between two palm trees, eyes closed in relaxation.

Examples

Mi hermano es muy perezoso y nunca limpia su habitación.

My brother is very lazy and never cleans his room.

Hoy me siento un poco perezoso, no quiero ir al gimnasio.

I feel a bit lazy today, I don't want to go to the gym.

Tuvimos un domingo perezoso viendo películas en el sofá.

We had a lazy Sunday watching movies on the couch.

Matching the Person

Since this is an adjective, you must change the ending to 'perezosa' if you are describing a woman or a feminine object.

Ser vs. Estar

Use 'ser' if laziness is a permanent part of someone's personality. Use 'estar' if someone is just feeling lazy at this particular moment.

Lazy vs. Slow

Mistake: “Using 'perezoso' to mean a car is slow.”

Correction: Use 'lento' for speed. 'Perezoso' describes a lack of motivation, not physical speed.

Person vs. Performance

The most common mistake is using 'perezoso' for technology or systems. Remember, 'perezoso' specifically refers to people who are slow or lazy, while 'lento' is for the performance of non-living things.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.