Meaning
To make a careless and embarrassing mistake.
Cultural Background
It is very commonly used in daily life to describe social errors, especially in family settings. While understood, Mexicans might also use 'la regué' as a more regional alternative. Used frequently, often accompanied by gestures of frustration.
Don't overthink it
It's a very common phrase. Don't worry about being perfect, just use it when you make a small error.
Watch the register
Never use this in a formal email to your boss!
Meaning
To make a careless and embarrassing mistake.
Don't overthink it
It's a very common phrase. Don't worry about being perfect, just use it when you make a small error.
Watch the register
Never use this in a formal email to your boss!
Test Yourself
Select the correct verb to complete the idiom.
Yo ______ la pata al hablar de su ex.
The idiom is 'meter la pata'.
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the idiom.
Si ______ la pata, pide perdón.
Present tense is needed for this conditional structure.
Which situation is appropriate for 'meter la pata'?
Which is the best context?
It is an informal idiom for personal mistakes.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'I told everyone about the surprise party.' B: 'Oh no, you ______!'
Correct conjugation for 'tú'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesYo ______ la pata al hablar de su ex.
The idiom is 'meter la pata'.
Si ______ la pata, pide perdón.
Present tense is needed for this conditional structure.
Which is the best context?
It is an informal idiom for personal mistakes.
A: 'I told everyone about the surprise party.' B: 'Oh no, you ______!'
Correct conjugation for 'tú'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsIt's better for social blunders or small errors. For big mistakes, use 'cometer un error grave'.
No, it's just informal. It's not a swear word.
No, that sounds like you are literally putting your foot somewhere.
Yes, it is widely understood everywhere.
You will sound unprofessional. Avoid it.
You can say 'metimos la pata' (we messed up).
Related Phrases
Cometer un error
synonymTo make a mistake
Pifiarla
similarTo mess up
La cagué
similarI screwed up
