Inklingo

How to Say "troubled" in Spanish

English → Spanish

agitado

ah-hee-TAH-dohaxiˈtaðo

adjectiveB2general
Use 'agitado' when referring to a person experiencing a state of unease, nervousness, or physical agitation, often due to exertion or emotional distress.
A colorful storybook illustration of a runner leaning forward with their hands on their knees, catching their breath after a run.

Examples

Llegó agitado después de subir las escaleras.

He arrived out of breath (or agitated) after climbing the stairs.

Su respiración era agitada y superficial.

Her breathing was heavy and shallow.

El paciente se mostraba agitado y confuso.

The patient appeared agitated and confused.

Describing People

When 'agitado' describes a person, it usually refers to their physical breathing or a state of nervousness.

Don't use for 'Angry'

Mistake: “Él está agitado conmigo.”

Correction: Él está enfadado conmigo. 'Agitado' is more about restlessness than anger.

complicado

kom-pli-KAH-dohkompliˈkaðo

adjectiveB1general
Use 'complicado' to describe a situation, relationship, or person that is complex, difficult, or has many problems and ups and downs.
A small, nervous character cautiously attempting to walk across a very narrow, wobbly plank bridge suspended high over a deep canyon.

Examples

Su relación es un poco complicada; tienen muchos altibajos.

Their relationship is a bit troubled (or complicated); they have many ups and downs.

Es una persona complicada, nunca sabes lo que quiere.

He is a difficult person; you never know what he wants.

Ser vs. Estar for Temporary States

While 'ser' (Eres complicado) describes someone's inherent difficult personality, 'estar' (Estás complicado) can describe a temporary state of being overwhelmed or in a tricky situation right now.

Agitado vs. Complicado

Learners often confuse 'agitado' and 'complicado' when translating 'troubled'. Remember that 'agitado' relates to a person's internal state of unease or physical disturbance, while 'complicado' refers to the complexity or difficulty of a situation or relationship.

Related Translations

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