Phrase in Spanish

What does "Estar de mala leche" mean in Spanish?

The Spanish expression "estar de mala leche" means to be in a bad mood or irritated. It is informal and can sound a bit rough depending on context.

Phrase

Estar de mala leche.

Natural translation

To be in a bad mood.

  • To be grumpy.
  • To be pissed off.

Breakdown of the phrase

estar

Verb used for states or temporary conditions.

de mala

Phrase that marks a negative state or mood.

leche

Literally: milk. In this idiom it does not refer to actual milk.

Usage notes

  • It is common in Spain and informal speech.
  • It can sound stronger than simply saying someone is in a bad mood.
  • A more neutral option is "estar de mal humor".

Similar examples

Hoy está de mala leche.

He is in a bad mood today.

No le digas nada ahora, está de mala leche.

Do not say anything to her now, she is irritated.

Me levanté de mala leche.

I woke up in a bad mood.

EchoLearn card

Front

Estar de mala leche.

Back

To be in a bad mood / irritated. Informal Spanish expression for being grumpy or annoyed.

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