The word "majo" is primarily used as an adjective in Spanish, though it can also be used as a noun.
/ˈmaxo/
In Spanish, "majo" is commonly used to describe someone who is pleasant, charming, or agreeable. It can refer to a person’s character or demeanor and is often used in colloquial speech. The term has a positive connotation and can be applied to both men and women (though the feminine counterpart is "maja").
The word is frequently used in oral speech, particularly in informal conversations.
El chico es muy majo y siempre ayuda a los demás.
The boy is very nice and always helps others.
¿Conoces a Ana? Es una chica majo y divertida.
Do you know Ana? She's a nice and funny girl.
El nuevo compañero de trabajo es majo, me llevo bien con él.
The new coworker is nice; I get along well with him.
"majo" appears in some idiomatic expressions predominantly in Spanish-speaking countries, often reflecting cultural nuances. Below are some examples:
Eres un majo.
You're a nice guy.
This expression is typically used as a compliment in informal settings, emphasizing someone's agreeable nature.
¡Qué majo eres!
How nice you are!
This is said when someone does something kind or considerate for another person.
No seas majo, dímelo directamente.
Don’t be nice, tell me directly.
This phrase implies that someone should be straightforward rather than trying to be overly polite.
Ese restaurante tiene un ambiente majo.
That restaurant has a nice atmosphere.
Used to refer to a pleasant or welcoming environment.
Siempre es majo cuando está rodeado de sus amigos.
He is always nice when he is around his friends.
Indicates that the person's conviviality is most evident in social situations.
"majo" has its origins rooted in Spanish culture and colloquialisms, and it may stem from the Andalusian dialect, where it is often used to denote a person with charm and pleasantness. Historically, it described someone as "well-dressed" or "tasteful" but has since evolved into a term for general niceness.
Synonyms: - Amable (kind) - Agradable (pleasant) - Simpático (nice, kind)
Antonyms: - Antipático (unfriendly) - Desagradable (unpleasant) - Grosero (rude)