How to Say "suck-up" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “suck-up” is “barbero” — B2 level.
English → SpanishB2
nounB2slang
someone who uses flattery to get what they want
Examples
No seas barbero con el jefe, no te va a dar el aumento.
Don't be a suck-up to the boss, he's not going to give you the raise.
Ese estudiante es un barbero, siempre le trae manzanas a la maestra.
That student is such a brown-noser, he's always bringing apples to the teacher.
Me choca la gente barbera.
I hate people who are suck-ups.
Noun as Adjective
While 'barbero' is a noun (a person), it is often used with the verb 'ser' (to be) to describe someone's behavior, almost like an adjective.
Using it outside of Mexico
Mistake: “Calling someone a 'barbero' in Spain to mean suck-up.”
Correction: In Spain, use 'pelota'. People in Spain will just think you are calling them a hair-cutter!
Related Translations
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