The word vago primarily means "lazy" or "idle," often referring to someone who avoids work or responsibility. It can also mean "vagabond" in certain contexts, implying someone who wanders without a fixed home.
Frequency of use: The term is quite common in everyday conversation and can be found in both oral and written contexts, though it may appear more frequently in informal speech.
Context: It is often used to describe a person's demeanor or work ethic, but can also carry a deeper connotation in discussions about social issues or lifestyle choices.
Example Sentences
El joven es muy vago y nunca ayuda en casa.
The young man is very lazy and never helps at home.
Ayer vi a un vago en el parque pidiendo limosna.
Yesterday I saw a vagabond in the park begging for money.
Parece que tiene un vago concepto de la responsabilidad.
It seems that he has a loose understanding of responsibility.
Idiomatic Expressions
The term vago appears in several idiomatic expressions that capture its connotations in various contexts.
Andar de vago: To wander aimlessly or to not have a specific job or occupation.
Example: Desde que perdió su trabajo, ha estado andando de vago por la ciudad.
Since he lost his job, he's been wandering aimlessly around the city.
Ser un vago de cuidado: To be a particularly lazy person, typically used in a negative tone.
Example: Ese chico es un vago de cuidado, nunca quiere hacer sus tareas.
That boy is a particularly lazy person; he never wants to do his homework.
Vago y zángano: This phrase often refers to someone who doesn’t contribute anything and takes advantage of others.
Example: No te juntes con ese grupo, son vagos y zánganos.
Don't hang out with that group; they are lazy and take advantage of others.
Etymology
The word vago originates from the Latin term "vagus," which means "wandering" or "loose." Over time, in Spanish, it evolved to represent idleness and lack of commitment, extending its meaning to refer to vagabonds and those who avoid work.