Tener mala pinta
Example: Esa comida tiene mala pinta, no la voy a probar.
Definition
"Tener mala pinta" is a Spanish expression used to describe something that looks bad, suspicious, or unappealing, often implying that it might be unsafe or of poor quality, as in the example phrase where food appears unappetizing and is avoided.
Translations
-
to look bad -
er niet best uitzien -
fer mala pinta -
avoir mauvaise mine -
nicht gut aussehen
Etymology
The phrase "tener mala pinta" literally translates to 'to have a bad look' in English. 'Tener' means 'to have,' 'mala' means 'bad,' and 'pinta' means 'appearance' or 'look.' This expression comes from everyday Spanish speech where 'pinta' refers to outward appearance, often used to judge something quickly by its looks.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Tener mala pinta" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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