Learning a language is not just about memorizing grammar or basic vocabulary. It’s also about knowing how to express how we feel in different situations. In Spanish, there is a wide variety of phrases and expressions to describe moods, from happiness to frustration. In this article from MaestroMío, we present some of the most common and useful ones for your daily life, with practical examples you can start using immediately.
1. To express joy and enthusiasm
When we are happy, we usually convey it with energy. In Spanish, besides simply saying “I’m happy,” there are many ways to express it:
- Estoy de buen humor. → Today I woke up in a good mood.
- Estoy encantado/a. → I’m delighted with my new job.
- Me hace mucha ilusión. → I’m really excited to travel to Málaga.
- Estoy como en una nube. → Since I passed the exam, I feel like I’m walking on air.
- Estoy pletórico/a. (very happy, full of energy)
These expressions add nuance to the simple idea of “being happy” and will help you sound more natural.
2. Talking about sadness or discouragement
Not every day is positive, and Spanish has very rich ways to talk about difficult moments:
- Estoy de bajón. → These days I’m feeling a bit down.
- Me siento abatido/a. → After so much bad news, I feel dejected.
- Estoy triste / apenado/a.
- No tengo ánimo para nada.
- Estoy hecho polvo. (very tired or emotionally drained)
The register can vary: “estar de bajón” is informal and everyday, while “sentirse abatido” sounds more formal or literary.
3. Expressions for anger or irritation
When something bothers us, Spanish offers very graphic expressions:
- Estoy harto/a. → I’m fed up with always waiting.
- Estoy que exploto. → With so much noise, I feel like I’m going to explode.
- Estoy de mal humor.
- Me saca de quicio. (something that drives you crazy)
- Estoy cabreado/a. (colloquial, strong, very common in Spain)
These expressions convey different degrees of anger, from simple annoyance to rage.
4. Nervousness, worry, and fear
When we feel insecure, nervous, or worried, there are also useful phrases:
- Estoy preocupado/a.
- Estoy nervioso/a.
- Tengo un nudo en el estómago.
- Estoy intranquilo/a.
- Me da miedo.
In a more informal context, phrases like “Estoy con la mosca detrás de la oreja” (when we suspect something) are also used.
5. To express boredom
Sometimes days feel long, or situations are not interesting. In Spanish, besides saying “I’m bored,” you can use these expressions:
- Me aburro como una ostra. → That class was so boring, I was bored stiff.
- Esto es un tostón. → The movie was a drag; I almost fell asleep.
- Estoy hasta las narices. (when something bores or tires you out)
- Qué rollo. → The meeting was endlessly boring.
- Estoy muerto/a de aburrimiento.
Tips for learning and using these expressions
- Listen to native speakers. Many of these phrases appear in everyday conversations, movies, or series.
- Don’t just translate literally. Expressions like “estar de bajón” don’t have an exact literal translation in English or French but work perfectly in context.
- Practice with real situations. Think about how you feel each day and express it in Spanish: “Hoy estoy de buen humor,” “Ayer estuve nervioso en la reunión.”
- Vary your vocabulary. Instead of always repeating “estoy feliz” or “estoy triste,” try richer and more expressive alternatives.
Mastering phrases and expressions to describe moods in Spanish is a way to get closer to the naturalness of the language. It will also allow you to connect better with others, express your personality, and understand the cultural nuances of Spanish speakers.
Next time someone asks you “¿Cómo estás?”, try going beyond “good” or “bad.” Dare to say: “Estoy encantado,” “Estoy de bajón,” or “Estoy a gusto.” You’ll see how your Spanish gains life and color!
📌 Want to practice more useful everyday expressions? At MaestroMío, you’ll find dynamic classes with native teachers who will help you expand your vocabulary and express yourself confidently in any situation.
