"Zoquete" is a noun in Spanish.
/θoˈkete/ (in Spain) or /soˈkete/ (in Latin America)
The term "zoquete" is a colloquial word used to describe someone who is considered simple-minded, clumsy, or inept. It can also refer to someone who lacks intelligence or is unable to understand things easily. The frequency of its use is more prevalent in oral speech than in written contexts. It is often used in informal conversations and can carry a slightly derogatory connotation.
Sometimes I feel like a blockhead when I don't understand my friends' jokes.
No seas zoquete, lee las instrucciones antes de armar el mueble.
Don't be a dunce, read the instructions before assembling the furniture.
El zoquete de Juan derramó toda la bebida en la mesa.
The word "zoquete" is not heavily featured in traditional idiomatic expressions; however, it can be included in more informal and colloquial phases that highlight the notion of clumsiness or ineptness.
"Don't be such a blockhead, you need to think before you act."
"El zoquete que perdiste el tren no puede quejarse ahora."
"The dunce who missed the train can't complain now."
"Siempre me dicen que soy un zoquete por no saber bailar."
"They always tell me I'm a clumsy person for not knowing how to dance."
"Tienes que dejar de ser zoquete y hacer las cosas bien desde el principio."
The origin of the word "zoquete" is somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to derive from the dialectal forms in the Spanish language that refer to a block of wood or something rudimentary and simple. It is thought to contrast the notion of being straightforward and rough with cleverness or sophistication. The connection to clumsiness likely follows from the idea of a "block" that cannot move fluidly or think intelligently.
Synonyms: - Torpe (clumsy) - Burro (donkey, in slang it can mean idiot) - Lerdo (slow, dimwit)
Antonyms: - Inteligente (intelligent) - Ágil (agile) - Perspicaz (insightful)