Noun
/kako/
"Caco" is a colloquial term primarily used in Guatemala, referring to a thief or a crook. Its usage is common in informal spoken language rather than in written contexts. The term carries a negative connotation and is often used to describe someone involved in petty crimes or theft. In everyday conversation, it reflects a cultural perception of crime, particularly in urban areas.
The term "caco" is frequently used in oral speech among locals in Guatemala. It may appear less often in formal writing or literature, as it is considered informal slang.
"Cuidado, ese caco está por ahí robando."
"Be careful, that thief is around stealing."
"No le des confianza al caco que conociste en el mercado."
"Don’t trust the crook you met at the market."
"La policía atrapó al caco que había asaltado la tienda."
"The police caught the thief who had robbed the store."
The term "caco" is not as commonly found in standard idiomatic expressions; however, it can be used in various phrases demonstrating its cultural context. Below are a few examples where "caco" serves as a central theme.
"Ser un caco de la vida."
"To be a crook of life."
This phrase refers to someone who continually engages in petty crime or deceiving behavior.
"Caco que roba a caco tiene su condena."
"A thief who steals from another thief will face his own punishment."
This expression conveys the idea that crime begets more crime and that those who commit crimes will eventually face consequences.
"Caco por un lado, ladrón por el otro."
"Thief on one side, robber on the other."
This reflects the idea that someone can engage in different types of theft or deceitful behavior.
The word "caco" has its roots in Spanish slang, likely derived from an alteration of the word "ladrón," which means "thief." The evolution of its use is closely tied to the social and cultural contexts of slang in Latin America, particularly in urban settings where informal communications flourish.
Synonyms: - Ladrón (thief) - Maleante (delinquent) - Delincuente (criminal)
Antonyms: - Honesto (honest) - Íntegro (upright) - Virtuoso (virtuous)