Meaning
Someone who habitually interferes in other people's affairs.
Cultural Background
In Spain, the 'metomentodo' is often associated with the 'comunidad de vecinos'. Because many Spaniards live in apartments with shared walls and balconies, people often know a lot about their neighbors' lives, leading to this specific type of social friction. While 'metomentodo' is understood, 'metiche' is much more common. It carries the same weight but feels more 'Mexican'. It's often used playfully between friends but can be very sharp when used seriously. Argentines might use 'metido'. In a culture that values intense social interaction and 'charla' (chatting), the line between being friendly and being a 'metido' is often debated. In Colombia, someone who is a 'metomentodo' might also be called 'entrometido' or 'sapo' (literally 'frog', but used for someone who tells on others or meddles).
Use with 'Ser'
Always use 'ser' because it's a character trait. Using 'estar' is a common learner mistake.
It's Negative
Don't use this to describe someone you like unless you are joking. It's a criticism.
Meaning
Someone who habitually interferes in other people's affairs.
Use with 'Ser'
Always use 'ser' because it's a character trait. Using 'estar' is a common learner mistake.
It's Negative
Don't use this to describe someone you like unless you are joking. It's a criticism.
Regional Choice
If you are in Mexico, use 'metiche' to sound more like a local.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the sentence.
Mi vecina ______ una metomentodo, siempre sabe quién entra en mi casa.
We use 'ser' (es) because being a metomentodo is a personality trait.
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the idiom.
No quiero ser un __________, pero ¿estás seguro de que ese color le queda bien a la pared?
The speaker is acknowledging they are interfering in a decision that isn't theirs.
Match the person to the description.
A person who reads your private emails over your shoulder.
Reading private emails is a classic intrusive behavior.
Complete the dialogue naturally.
A: ¿Has visto con quién sale Marta? B: No, y no me importa. No soy un __________ como tú.
The context of gossiping about someone's dating life fits 'metomentodo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMi vecina ______ una metomentodo, siempre sabe quién entra en mi casa.
We use 'ser' (es) because being a metomentodo is a personality trait.
No quiero ser un __________, pero ¿estás seguro de que ese color le queda bien a la pared?
The speaker is acknowledging they are interfering in a decision that isn't theirs.
A person who reads your private emails over your shoulder.
Reading private emails is a classic intrusive behavior.
A: ¿Has visto con quién sale Marta? B: No, y no me importa. No soy un __________ como tú.
The context of gossiping about someone's dating life fits 'metomentodo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsIt's not a swear word, but it is an insult. It's like calling someone a 'busybody' in English—it's critical and annoying, but you can say it on TV.
Yes, if a child is constantly interrupting adult conversations, you can say 'No seas metomentodo'. It's a common way to teach boundaries.
Usually no. You say 'la metomentodo'. However, in some very informal contexts, you might hear 'metomentoda', but it's better to stick to the invariable form.
A 'cotilla' is someone who likes to hear and spread gossip. A 'metomentodo' is someone who actually interferes or tries to manage your business.
Absolutely not. It's too informal and carries a negative vibe. Use 'intrusivo' or 'intervencionista' if you must discuss this behavior professionally.
Related Phrases
meter las narices
similarTo stick one's nose into something.
no tener vela en este entierro
contrastTo have no business in a matter.
cotilla
synonymA gossip.
metiche
synonymBusybody (Latin America).
