carcamal (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "carcamal" is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/kaɾ.kaˈmal/

Translation Options into English

1. Old codger
2. Old fogy
3. Cranky old man/woman

Meaning and Usage

"Carcamal" is a colloquial term used in Spanish to refer to an elderly person who is often considered outdated, irritable, or set in their ways, similar to the English expressions "old codger" or "old fogey." The term carries a slightly pejorative connotation, suggesting that the person is not just old, but also somewhat cantankerous or difficult.

In terms of frequency, "carcamal" is more commonly used in oral speech than in written context. It is predominantly used in informal conversations, often in a humorous or light-hearted manner.

Example Sentences

1. "Ese carcamal siempre se queja de la música nueva."

2. "That old codger always complains about the new music."

3. "Mi abuelo es un carcamal que no se adapta a la tecnología."

4. "My grandfather is an old fogey who doesn't adapt to technology."

5. "No le hagas caso al carcamal, siempre habla de cómo eran las cosas en su época."

6. "Don’t listen to that cranky old man; he always talks about how things were in his time."

Idiomatic Expressions

While "carcamal" is not a common component of idiomatic expressions, it can be seen in various contexts where it describes elderly individuals with particular traits. Here are some idiomatic usages that include "carcamal":

1. "El carcamal del barrio siempre tiene un consejo anticuado para dar."

2. "The old fogey of the neighborhood always has an outdated piece of advice to give."

3. "No seas carcamal, ¡disfruta de la vida!"

4. "Don't be an old codger, enjoy life!"

5. "Ese carcamal no puede aceptar que las cosas han cambiado."

6. "That old codger can't accept that things have changed."

7. "La forma en que habla a los jóvenes muestra lo carcamal que es."

8. "The way he talks to young people shows how cantankerous he is."

9. "A veces, ser carcamal tiene sus ventajas, como contar historias interesantes."

10. "Sometimes being an old fogey has its advantages, like telling interesting stories."

Etymology

The word "carcamal" is derived from the Spanish term "carcama," which historically referred to someone old or decrepit. Over time, it evolved into the more casual and colloquial usage we see today.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Viejo (old) - Anciano (elderly) - Quijotesco (old-fashioned, in a whimsical way)

Antonyms: - Joven (young) - Moderno (modern) - Actual (current)