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patoso means clumsy — a common term in Funny Words. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 20, 2025

😆 Funny Words

patoso

adjective • /[pah-TOH-soh]/

clumsy

Example:

¡Qué patoso al derramar el café!

How clumsy you are spilling the coffee!

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🧠 What does patoso mean?

Patoso is a Spanish adjective that describes someone as clumsy, awkward, or prone to tripping or dropping things. It paints a picture of someone a little ungainly in their movements, often resulting in comical mishaps. While it can be used playfully, it can also carry a slightly negative connotation if used in a critical way.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¡Qué patoso eres! ¡Has derramado el café otra vez!
    How clumsy you are! You've spilled the coffee again!
  • Ese chico es tan patoso que siempre tropieza con sus propios pies.
    That boy is so clumsy, he's always tripping over his own feet.
  • Con esos zapatos nuevos me siento un poco patosa.
    With these new shoes, I feel a bit clumsy.
  • Tuvo una actuación un poco patosa en el escenario.
    They had a rather clumsy performance on stage.
  • Intenté bailar salsa, pero fui muy patosa.
    I tried to dance salsa, but I was very clumsy.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'clumsy' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'clumsy' in Spanish is 'patoso' or 'torpe'. Other options include 'desmañado' and 'chapucero', although these can have slightly different nuances.
How do you pronounce 'patoso' in Spanish?
It's pronounced pah-TOH-soh, with the stress on the second syllable.
How do you use 'patoso' in a sentence?
You can use 'patoso' just like you would use 'clumsy' in English. For example: 'Eres un poco patoso' (You are a bit clumsy) or 'Ella es muy patosa' (She is very clumsy).
What is the English translation of 'patoso'?
The English translation of 'patoso' is 'clumsy'.
Does 'patoso' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'patoso' changes to match the gender and number of the noun it describes. For a feminine noun, it becomes 'patosa', for masculine plural 'patosos', and for feminine plural 'patosas'.
Is 'patoso' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'patoso' is a common word used in everyday Spanish conversations.
Does 'patoso' have slang or double meanings?
While generally understood to mean 'clumsy', 'patoso' can sometimes be used playfully as a lighthearted tease. It doesn't typically have any negative slang or double meanings.
Is 'patoso' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'patoso' are consistent across Spain and Latin America. You'll be understood perfectly well using it in either region.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "patoso"

Synonyms: torpe, desmañado, chapucero
Opposites: hábil, diestro, ágil

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'patoso' comes from the word 'pato', which means 'duck'. This connection might be because ducks can sometimes appear clumsy or ungainly on land.

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