Inklingo

How to Say "useless people" in Spanish

English → Spanish

inútiles

nounB1
Use 'inútiles' when referring to a group of people who are generally unproductive, incompetent, or not contributing meaningfully, often in a work context.

Examples

El jefe despidió a los inútiles que no hacían su trabajo.

The boss fired the useless people (the good-for-nothings) who weren't doing their job.

paquetes

/pah-KEH-tehs//paˈketes/

nounC1informal
Use 'paquetes' informally to describe someone who is very incompetent, clumsy, or a failure, especially in a specific skill or activity like sports.
A person on a soccer field tripping over a soccer ball with a confused expression.

Examples

Los nuevos delanteros son unos paquetes.

The new forwards are totally useless/clumsy.

Inútiles vs. Paquetes

Learners often confuse 'inútiles' and 'paquetes'. While both describe uselessness, 'inútiles' is broader and can apply to anyone not contributing, whereas 'paquetes' is more informal and specific to someone being a complete failure or incompetent at something.

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