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How to Say "taunt" in Spanish

English → Spanish

burla

BOOR-lahˈbuɾla

nounB1
Use 'burla' when referring to the actual mocking remark or insult that is intended to make someone feel foolish or bad.
A character with a playful, mischievous expression pointing and laughing lightheartedly.

Examples

Sus burlas constantes sobre mi acento me hacían sentir incómodo.

His constant taunts about my accent made me feel uncomfortable.

No me gustan sus burlas sobre mi ropa.

I don't like his jokes about my clothes.

Lo hizo en son de burla.

He did it in a mocking way.

Using the word with 'de'

When you want to say who or what you are making fun of, always use 'de' after the word burla.

Burla vs. Broma

Mistake: “Using 'burla' for a friendly prank.”

Correction: Use 'broma' for friendly jokes. 'Burla' often implies someone's feelings are being hurt or they are being humiliated.

provocación

nounB1
Choose 'provocación' when the focus is on the action or statement made with the intention of eliciting a negative reaction or upsetting someone.

Examples

Ignora sus comentarios, es solo una provocación para que te enojes.

Ignore his comments, it's just a taunt to make you angry.

Burla vs. Provocación

Learners often confuse 'burla' and 'provocación' because both can involve hurtful words. Remember that 'burla' is the insult itself, while 'provocación' is the act of trying to cause a reaction with words or actions.

Related Translations

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