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hipócrita

B1 adjective #7,000 most common 16 min read

hipócrita

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips hipócrita in 30 Seconds

Explanation hipócrita in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'hipócrita' as a word for someone who is 'not nice' because they say one thing and do another. It is a bit like saying someone is 'fake'. Even at this beginning stage, it is important to remember that 'hipócrita' does not change for boys or girls. You always use the '-a' at the end. For example, if a boy says he likes apples but then says he hates them, you might call that 'hipócrita'. It is a big word for A1, but because it is very similar to the English word 'hypocrite', it is easy to remember. Just remember the silent 'h'! You don't say the 'h' sound at the beginning. It sounds like 'ee-PO-cree-tah'. Use it to describe simple situations where someone is not being honest about what they like or do. It is a useful word to know when you want to talk about people's behavior in a simple way.

At the A2 level, you should start using 'hipócrita' to describe people's actions more specifically. You can use it with the verb 'ser' to describe a person's character. For example, 'Él es hipócrita'. You can also use it to talk about social situations. At this level, you should be careful with the accent mark on the 'ó'. This accent is important because it tells you where to put the stress when you speak. You might hear this word in simple stories or conversations about friends. It is often used when someone feels a little bit betrayed. For instance, if a friend tells you to study hard but they never study, you can say their behavior is 'hipócrita'. It's a great word to add to your descriptions of people, moving beyond simple adjectives like 'bueno' or 'malo'.

At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the moral nuances of 'hipócrita'. It's not just about being 'fake'; it's about pretending to have higher standards than you actually do. You can use it to talk about more complex topics like politics, the environment, or social rules. You should be able to use it as both a noun ('un hipócrita') and an adjective ('una actitud hipócrita'). This is also the level where you should start distinguishing it from other words like 'mentiroso' (liar). A liar just says things that aren't true, but a hypocrite tries to look like a better person than they are. You will see this word often in news articles and opinion pieces. Practice using it to express your own opinions about social issues. Remember that it's a strong word, so use it when you really mean to criticize someone's lack of integrity.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'hipócrita' in debates and formal writing. You can use it to analyze characters in literature or films. You should also be familiar with the noun form 'la hipocresía'. At this level, you can use intensifiers like 'sumamente' or 'totalmente' to add weight to your statements. For example, 'Me parece una postura sumamente hipócrita'. You should also understand how 'hipócrita' fits into the broader cultural context of Spanish-speaking countries, where personal honor and consistency are very important. You might use it to discuss 'la doble moral' (double standards) in society. Your pronunciation should be clear, with the correct stress on the 'ó'. You should also be able to recognize when the word is being used sarcastically in casual conversation among native speakers.

At the C1 level, you can use 'hipócrita' with sophisticated precision. You understand its etymological roots and how that informs its meaning as a 'performance'. You can use it to describe subtle social phenomena or complex psychological states. You should be able to use synonyms like 'solapado' or 'farisaico' to provide more specific nuances. In your writing, you can use 'hipócrita' to construct persuasive arguments about ethics or public policy. You are also aware of the regional variations in how the word is used and the different idioms that incorporate the concept of hypocrisy. You can engage in deep discussions about whether hypocrisy is sometimes necessary for social harmony or if it is always a moral failing. Your use of the word is natural, and you can handle the emotional weight it carries in high-level discourse.

At the C2 level, 'hipócrita' is a tool you use with the finesse of a native speaker. You can identify the word's use in classical literature and explain its significance in the development of Spanish moral philosophy. You can use it in highly formal speeches or academic papers, as well as in the most nuanced social interactions. You understand the irony and paradoxes often associated with hypocrisy. You can use the word to critique not just individuals, but entire historical movements or philosophical systems. You are also able to play with the word in creative writing, using it to create complex, multi-layered characters. Your mastery of 'hipócrita' and its related terms allows you to navigate the most subtle aspects of Spanish culture and communication with complete confidence.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

hipócrita in 30 Seconds

Hipócrita describes a person who pretends to have virtues or beliefs they don't actually possess.
It functions as both an adjective and a noun in Spanish, carrying a strong moral criticism.
Crucially, it is gender-neutral; the ending '-a' is used for both masculine and feminine subjects.
It is a common term in politics, media, and daily social interactions to highlight double standards.

The Spanish word hipócrita is a powerful and frequently used term that describes a person who pretends to have virtues, moral beliefs, or principles that they do not actually possess. At its core, it refers to the discrepancy between a person's public persona and their private actions or true thoughts. In Spanish-speaking cultures, sincerity and loyalty are highly valued, so being labeled as an hipócrita is a significant social indictment. This word is not just a descriptor; it is often a sharp criticism of someone's character. It is used in a variety of contexts, ranging from personal betrayals among friends to the public scrutiny of politicians who fail to live up to their campaign promises. Understanding this word requires more than just knowing its English equivalent; it requires understanding the weight of social expectations in Spanish-speaking societies where the 'face' one presents to the world is deeply scrutinized.

Moral Inconsistency: This is the primary usage, referring to someone who preaches one thing but does the opposite. For example, a person who criticizes others for being late but is never on time themselves.

Es muy hipócrita criticar el consumismo mientras compras ropa nueva cada semana.

In a broader sense, the word can be applied to institutions or systems. You might hear people talk about the 'hipocresía del sistema' (hypocrisy of the system) when laws are applied unfairly. The term is versatile because it can function as both an adjective (describing a person) and a noun (referring to the person themselves). Unlike many Spanish adjectives ending in -a, hipócrita is gender-neutral when used as an adjective. You would say 'él es hipócrita' and 'ella es hipócrita'. This lack of gender inflection is a common trap for learners who expect masculine words to end in -o. The emotional resonance of the word is high; it implies a level of deceit that goes beyond a simple lie. It suggests a calculated performance designed to deceive others into thinking the person is better than they actually are. This performance aspect is rooted in the word's etymology, which comes from the Greek word for an actor.

Social Context: In social settings, calling someone an 'hipócrita' is a direct confrontation. It is rarely used lightly among friends unless in a joking, hyperbolic manner.

No seas hipócrita; tú también estabas allí cuando ocurrió.

The word also appears frequently in literature and religious texts. Historically, it has been used to describe religious leaders who follow the letter of the law but not its spirit. This specific nuance—of being a 'whitewashed tomb'—carries over into modern Spanish. When you use this word, you are questioning the integrity of the person's soul or character. It is a word of judgment. Because of its strength, learners should use it carefully. In professional settings, it is better to use softer terms like 'inconsistente' or 'contradictorio' unless you intend to make a very serious accusation. However, in the realm of politics or social commentary, it is a standard tool for highlighting the failures of public figures. The word captures the universal human frustration with those who hold others to standards they refuse to meet themselves.

Political Usage: Used to describe leaders who pass environmental laws while owning private jets. It highlights the gap between policy and personal lifestyle.

La actitud del ministro fue calificada de hipócrita por la prensa.

Finally, it is worth noting that 'hipócrita' can be intensified with adverbs like 'sumamente', 'extremadamente', or 'tremendamente'. These additions amplify the sense of betrayal or frustration. In some regional dialects, you might hear people say 'un hipócrita de marca mayor', which means a hypocrite of the highest degree. This richness of expression shows how central the concept of honesty is in Spanish culture. By mastering this word, you gain a tool to describe a complex but common human behavior that is universally recognized but particularly despised in the Spanish-speaking world. It allows you to participate in deeper conversations about ethics, character, and social responsibility.

Me parece una postura hipócrita defender la paz y vender armas.

¡Qué hipócrita eres! Ayer dijiste todo lo contrario.

Using the word hipócrita correctly involves understanding its grammatical function as both an adjective and a noun, and its peculiar lack of gender inflection. Even though the word ends in '-a', it is used for both men and women. This is a common point of confusion for English speakers who are used to the 'o/a' gender rule in Spanish. For example, you would say 'Juan es hipócrita' and 'María es hipócrita'. In both cases, the word remains the same. When used as a noun, the same rule applies: 'un hipócrita' (a male hypocrite) and 'una hipócrita' (a female hypocrite). The plural forms follow standard rules: 'unos hipócritas' and 'unas hipócritas'.

As an Adjective: It usually follows the noun it modifies. For example: 'una sociedad hipócrita' (a hypocritical society). However, placing it before the noun can add emotional emphasis: 'su hipócrita sonrisa' (his/her hypocritical smile).

No quiero escuchar tus hipócritas disculpas; sé lo que hiciste.

The word is often paired with the verb ser because hypocrisy is usually seen as a character trait rather than a temporary state (which would use estar). If you say 'él es hipócrita', you are saying that being a hypocrite is part of who he is. However, you can use estar siendo to describe someone's behavior in a specific moment: 'Estás siendo hipócrita ahora mismo' (You are being hypocritical right now). This distinction is important for conveying whether you are attacking someone's entire personality or just their current actions. Another common verb used with this word is sonar (to sound). For instance, 'Eso suena un poco hipócrita' (That sounds a bit hypocritical) is a slightly less direct way of calling someone out.

As a Noun: It can stand alone to refer to a person. 'Es un hipócrita' means 'He is a hypocrite'. This is very common in exclamations.

¡Eres un hipócrita! Me dijiste que me ayudarías y te fuiste.

In formal writing, 'hipócrita' can be used to describe policies, arguments, or positions. For example, 'una política hipócrita' (a hypocritical policy). It is a standard term in political science and sociology to describe the gap between stated values and actual outcomes. When writing, ensure that the adjectives modifying 'hipócrita' (if it's acting as a noun) agree in gender. For example, 'un hipócrita redomado' (a complete hypocrite - masculine) vs 'una hipócrita redomada' (a complete hypocrite - feminine). The word 'redomado' is a great intensifier to learn alongside 'hipócrita'.

Common Combinations: 'Comportamiento hipócrita' (hypocritical behavior), 'discurso hipócrita' (hypocritical speech), and 'moral hipócrita' (hypocritical morality).

Debemos evitar caer en un comportamiento hipócrita dentro de la empresa.

In summary, using 'hipócrita' requires attention to the accent mark, an understanding that the gender doesn't change for the adjective, and a sense of the social weight the word carries. Whether you are using it to criticize a friend's inconsistency or a government's double standards, the word provides a precise way to describe the lack of integrity. It is a staple of Spanish vocabulary that allows for both personal and intellectual expression. By practicing these sentence structures, you will be able to use the word naturally and effectively in various contexts.

Esa es la cosa más hipócrita que he escuchado en toda mi vida.

Los hipócritas nunca admiten sus propios errores.

The word hipócrita is ubiquitous in Spanish-speaking media and daily life. You will hear it most frequently in contexts involving social or political conflict. In the world of news and journalism, it is a favorite term for commentators who want to highlight the inconsistencies of public figures. For example, during an election cycle, opposition parties will frequently label the incumbent's actions as 'hipócritas' if they contradict their previous promises. This usage is common across Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and the rest of the Spanish-speaking world. It is a standard part of the vocabulary for anyone engaging in political debate or social activism.

News and Media: Headlines often use the word to attract attention to scandals. 'La hipócrita respuesta del gobierno ante la crisis' is a typical example of a hard-hitting headline.

El periodista llamó hipócrita al senador durante la entrevista en vivo.

Another place where you will constantly encounter this word is in telenovelas and dramas. Because these shows thrive on interpersonal conflict, betrayal, and hidden motives, 'hipócrita' is a staple insult. It is often delivered with great drama and emphasis, usually during a scene where a secret is revealed. A character might find out that their 'best friend' has been plotting against them and scream, '¡Maldita hipócrita!' (You cursed hypocrite!). This pop-culture usage has reinforced the word's emotional weight. If you are watching Spanish-language TV, pay attention to the tone used when this word is spoken; it is usually dripping with venom or disappointment.

Daily Conversations: In everyday life, people use it to gossip (chisme) about acquaintances. 'No me gusta ella, me parece muy hipócrita' is a common sentiment in social circles.

En el trabajo, hay mucha gente hipócrita que solo busca su propio beneficio.

Literature and music also frequently employ the term. Many songs, particularly in genres like Bolero, Ranchera, or even modern Reggaeton and Pop, deal with themes of heartbreak and betrayal. Lyrics often describe a lover as 'hipócrita' for promising eternal love while being unfaithful. In literature, classic Spanish authors like Miguel de Cervantes or modern writers like Gabriel García Márquez use the concept of hypocrisy to explore the complexities of human nature and society. Reading these works will give you a deeper appreciation for how the word functions as a tool for moral and social critique. Whether in a high-brow novel or a catchy song, the word remains a powerful way to express the pain of being deceived.

Music and Lyrics: 'Hipócrita, sencillamente hipócrita' is a famous line from a song by Paquita la del Barrio, known for her songs against 'worthless' men.

La letra de la canción habla de un amor hipócrita y lleno de mentiras.

Social media has also seen a surge in the use of this word. On platforms like Twitter (X) or Facebook, users often call out celebrities or influencers for 'comportamientos hipócritas'. For instance, an influencer promoting environmentalism while using excessive plastic might be 'canceled' for being hipócrita. The digital age has made it easier to track inconsistencies, and thus, the word is used more than ever to hold people accountable. In summary, you will hear 'hipócrita' in the halls of power, on the screens of your favorite shows, in the lyrics of popular songs, and in the whispers of daily life. It is an essential word for navigating the social and emotional landscape of the Spanish-speaking world.

No soporto la hipocresía de las redes sociales, donde todo parece perfecto.

Es un hipócrita por decir que no le importa el dinero.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using hipócrita is attempting to change its ending based on gender. In many Spanish adjectives, an '-o' ending signifies masculine and an '-a' ending signifies feminine (e.g., 'alto' vs. 'alta'). However, hipócrita belongs to a group of adjectives that end in '-a' regardless of the gender of the noun they modify. Saying 'él es hipócrito' is a major grammatical error that immediately marks you as a beginner. Always remember: 'el hombre hipócrita' and 'la mujer hipócrita'. This rule applies to both the adjective and the noun form.

Gender Neutrality: The word ends in '-a' for everyone. Do not use 'hipócrito'. This is similar to words like 'optimista', 'realista', or 'artista'.

Incorrecto: Juan es un hipócrito. Correcto: Juan es un hipócrita.

Another common error is forgetting the written accent mark on the 'ó'. In Spanish, 'hipócrita' is an 'esdrújula' word, which means the stress falls on the third-to-last syllable (hi-PÓ-cri-ta). In Spanish grammar, all esdrújula words must have a written accent. Omitting the accent is a common spelling mistake, even for some native speakers in casual writing, but in formal contexts, it is essential. The accent also helps you remember where to place the emphasis when speaking. If you misplace the stress, the word might become difficult for native speakers to recognize immediately.

Confusion with 'Mentiroso': While a hypocrite often lies, 'hipócrita' and 'mentiroso' are not identical. A 'mentiroso' simply tells untruths. An 'hipócrita' pretends to have a moral standard they don't follow.

No es solo un mentiroso; es un hipócrita porque nos juzga por lo mismo que él hace.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the intensity of the word. In English, 'hypocrite' can sometimes be used in a mild, almost observational way. In Spanish, 'hipócrita' is almost always a serious accusation. Using it for a minor inconsistency might seem overly aggressive. For example, if a friend says they don't like pizza but then eats a slice, calling them an 'hipócrita' might be too strong; 'inconsecuente' or just 'mentiroso' might be more appropriate. It is important to match the strength of the word to the severity of the situation to avoid unnecessary social friction.

Pronunciation Errors: English speakers often try to pronounce the 'h'. Remember that the 'h' is always silent in Spanish. The word starts with the 'i' sound.

Se pronuncia i-PÓ-cri-ta, no hi-PÓ-cri-ta.

Finally, some learners confuse 'hipócrita' with 'hipócrito', which we already mentioned, or even with 'hipoteca' (mortgage) because of the similar beginning. While 'hipoteca' is a common financial term, calling someone an 'hipoteca' instead of an 'hipócrita' would lead to a very confusing and humorous situation. Always double-check your vocabulary when dealing with words that have technical or financial sounding roots. By avoiding these common pitfalls—gender mistakes, missing accents, over-usage, and silent 'h' errors—you will use 'hipócrita' with the precision and impact of a native speaker.

No seas hipócrita con tus sentimientos; sé honesto contigo mismo.

Es una situación hipócrita que nadie quiere mencionar.

While hipócrita is a very precise word, there are several alternatives that can be used depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms will help you vary your vocabulary and sound more natural in different social settings. A common synonym is falso (false/fake). While 'hipócrita' implies a moral pretension, 'falso' is broader and can describe anyone who is not being genuine. It is a slightly less intense but still negative term.

Falso / Falsa: Used for people who are insincere or 'two-faced'. It is very common in casual conversation. 'Ella es muy falsa' is a typical way to describe someone who acts like a friend but isn't.

No confío en él; me parece una persona muy falsa.

Another excellent term is doble cara (two-faced). This is more of an idiomatic expression but it is used as an adjective. It perfectly captures the essence of showing one face to a person and another face behind their back. It is very descriptive and commonly used in Spain and Latin America. If you want to be more formal, you might use impostor. An 'impostor' is someone who assumes a false identity or character. While an 'hipócrita' pretends to have certain values, an 'impostor' might pretend to be a completely different person (like a fake doctor or a fake expert).

Solapado / Solapada: This refers to someone who hides their true intentions or character under a deceptive appearance. It implies a certain level of sneakiness or craftiness that 'hipócrita' doesn't always have.

Ten cuidado con él, es un tipo solapado que nunca dice lo que piensa.

In a more academic or literary context, you might encounter farisaico. This comes from the word 'Pharisee' and specifically refers to a hypocritical concern with the letter of the law or religious rituals while ignoring the moral spirit. It is a very specific type of hypocrisy. Conversely, if you want to describe the opposite of 'hipócrita', the best words are íntegro (having integrity) or sincero (sincere). An 'íntegro' person is someone whose actions consistently match their values, which is the direct antidote to hypocrisy. Using these antonyms in conversation can help highlight the positive traits you value in people.

Comparison Table: Hipócrita: Moral inconsistency. Falso: General insincerity. Doble cara: Social betrayal. Solapado: Hidden, sneaky motives.

Prefiero a un enemigo declarado que a un amigo hipócrita.

Finally, there is the word cínico (cynical). While sometimes used interchangeably with 'hipócrita' in casual speech, they are different. A 'cínico' in Spanish often refers to someone who does something wrong and doesn't even bother to hide it or feel ashamed—they might even boast about it. An 'hipócrita' tries to look good; a 'cínico' doesn't care if they look bad as long as they get what they want. Knowing the difference between these two will greatly improve your ability to describe complex human behaviors. By learning 'hipócrita' alongside its synonyms and antonyms, you build a robust vocabulary for discussing character and ethics in Spanish.

Es mejor ser sincero y admitir tus fallos que ser un hipócrita.

Su actitud farisaica molestó a todos los presentes en la reunión.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"La política exterior de la nación ha sido calificada de hipócrita por los observadores internacionales."

Neutral

"Es un poco hipócrita que te quejes del ruido cuando tú siempre pones la música alta."

Informal

"¡No me vengas con esas, eres un hipócrita!"

Child friendly

"No está bien decir que compartes tus juguetes y luego esconderlos; eso no es ser sincero."

Slang

"Ese tipo es un falso y un hipócrita de manual."

Fun Fact

The word originally had no negative connotation; it simply described someone who performed in a play. It only became a moral insult later when it was used to describe people 'acting' in real life.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /iˈpɔ.kɾi.ta/

US /iˈpoʊ.kɾi.tə/

The stress is on the third-to-last syllable (esdrújula): hi-PÓ-cri-ta.

Rhymes With

crítica política analítica mítica paralítica raquítica sifilítica granítica

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'h' at the beginning (it should be silent).
Putting the stress on the 'i' (hipo-CRI-ta) instead of the 'ó'.
Changing the ending to '-o' for men.
Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' instead of a Spanish tap.
Missing the accent mark when writing.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate, but requires attention to context.

Writing 5/5

Moderate difficulty due to the mandatory accent mark and the gender-neutral ending.

Speaking 4/5

Requires practice to avoid pronouncing the 'h' and to place the stress correctly.

Listening 3/5

Easy to hear, but can be confused with 'hipoteca' or other similar sounding words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

malo falso mentira verdad decir

Learn Next

hipocresía cinismo integridad coherencia doble moral

Advanced

farisaico protervo pérfido insidioso maquiavélico

Grammar to Know

Adjectives ending in -a for both genders.

El artista es hipócrita. La artista es hipócrita.

Accentuation of 'esdrújula' words.

Hipócrita, teléfono, pájaro (all have accents on the 3rd to last syllable).

Use of 'ser' for personality traits.

Él es hipócrita (it's his character).

Substantivization of adjectives with articles.

El hipócrita siempre miente (The hypocrite always lies).

Agreement of adjectives with noun-adjectives.

Un hipócrita redomado (masculine), una hipócrita redomada (feminine).

Examples by Level

Él dice que es bueno, pero es hipócrita.

He says he is good, but he is a hypocrite.

Notice 'hipócrita' ends in 'a' even for a man (Él).

No seas hipócrita con tu hermano.

Don't be a hypocrite with your brother.

Imperative form 'no seas' + adjective.

Ella es una persona hipócrita.

She is a hypocritical person.

Adjective following the noun 'persona'.

Juan es hipócrita porque miente.

Juan is a hypocrite because he lies.

Using 'porque' to explain the reason for the adjective.

Es hipócrita decir que te gusta el brócoli y no comerlo.

It is hypocritical to say you like broccoli and not eat it.

Using 'Es' + adjective + infinitive verb.

Mi amigo no es hipócrita, es sincero.

My friend is not a hypocrite, he is sincere.

Contrasting 'hipócrita' with its antonym 'sincero'.

Ellos son hipócritas.

They are hypocrites.

Plural form 'hipócritas'.

¡Qué hipócrita!

What a hypocrite!

Exclamatory use of the word.

Me parece hipócrita que pidas silencio y hables tanto.

It seems hypocritical to me that you ask for silence and talk so much.

Use of 'Me parece' + adjective + 'que' clause.

No me gustan los amigos hipócritas.

I don't like hypocritical friends.

Plural adjective matching plural noun 'amigos'.

Su actitud fue muy hipócrita ayer.

His/Her attitude was very hypocritical yesterday.

Past tense 'fue' with the adjective.

Es un hipócrita; dice que no tiene dinero pero compró un coche.

He is a hypocrite; he says he has no money but bought a car.

Noun use with the article 'un'.

No quiero ser hipócrita contigo.

I don't want to be a hypocrite with you.

Infinitive 'ser' after 'querer'.

Ella siempre es hipócrita en el trabajo.

She is always hypocritical at work.

Adverb 'siempre' modifying the verb 'ser'.

Ese comentario sonó un poco hipócrita.

That comment sounded a bit hypocritical.

Using the verb 'sonar' (to sound) with the adjective.

¡No seas una hipócrita!

Don't be a hypocrite! (to a woman)

Negative imperative 'no seas' used with a female noun.

Es una postura hipócrita defender el medio ambiente y usar tanto plástico.

It is a hypocritical stance to defend the environment and use so much plastic.

Noun phrase 'postura hipócrita'.

La hipócrita sociedad en la que vivimos a veces nos obliga a mentir.

The hypocritical society we live in sometimes forces us to lie.

Adjective placed before the noun 'sociedad' for emphasis.

Muchos políticos son hipócritas porque no cumplen sus promesas.

Many politicians are hypocrites because they don't fulfill their promises.

Generalization using plural 'políticos' and 'hipócritas'.

Me dolió descubrir que mi mejor amigo era un hipócrita.

It hurt me to discover that my best friend was a hypocrite.

Imperfect tense 'era' for a past state of being.

No hay nada más hipócrita que juzgar a otros por tus propios errores.

There is nothing more hypocritical than judging others for your own mistakes.

Comparative structure 'nada más... que'.

Su hipócrita preocupación por mi salud no me engaña.

His/Her hypocritical concern for my health doesn't fool me.

Possessive adjective 'Su' modifying the noun phrase.

Actuó de manera hipócrita durante toda la reunión.

He/She acted in a hypocritical manner throughout the meeting.

Adverbial phrase 'de manera hipócrita'.

A veces es difícil no ser hipócrita para evitar conflictos.

Sometimes it's hard not to be a hypocrite to avoid conflicts.

Infinitive 'ser' with a negative 'no'.

La crítica fue tachada de hipócrita por los seguidores del artista.

The criticism was labeled as hypocritical by the artist's followers.

Passive construction 'fue tachada de'.

Resulta hipócrita quejarse de la falta de tiempo cuando pasas horas en el móvil.

It turns out to be hypocritical to complain about lack of time when you spend hours on your phone.

Using 'Resulta' as a synonym for 'Es' in this context.

Es un hipócrita redomado; no le creas ni una palabra.

He is a complete hypocrite; don't believe a single word he says.

Use of the intensifier 'redomado'.

La película explora la hipócrita moralidad de la clase alta en el siglo XIX.

The film explores the hypocritical morality of the upper class in the 19th century.

Adjective modifying the abstract noun 'moralidad'.

No soporto a la gente que tiene una doble cara tan hipócrita.

I can't stand people who have such a hypocritical double face.

Combining 'doble cara' with 'hipócrita'.

Su discurso sonaba hipócrita, dada su trayectoria personal.

His/Her speech sounded hypocritical, given his/her personal history.

Adjective modifying the subject 'discurso' via the verb 'sonaba'.

Sería hipócrita por mi parte decir que no me importa el éxito.

It would be hypocritical on my part to say that I don't care about success.

Conditional 'sería' and the phrase 'por mi parte'.

Denunció la hipócrita actitud de las empresas que fingen ser éticas.

He/She denounced the hypocritical attitude of companies that pretend to be ethical.

Preterite 'Denunció' with a complex object phrase.

La retórica del gobierno es inherentemente hipócrita ante la crisis migratoria.

The government's rhetoric is inherently hypocritical in the face of the migration crisis.

Use of the adverb 'inherentemente'.

Existe una hipócrita complacencia en ignorar los problemas ajenos mientras nos afecten.

There is a hypocritical complacency in ignoring others' problems as long as they don't affect us.

Abstract noun phrase 'hipócrita complacencia'.

Sus palabras, aunque elocuentes, no dejaban de ser profundamente hipócritas.

His/Her words, although eloquent, did not cease to be profoundly hypocritical.

Concessive clause 'aunque elocuentes' and 'no dejar de ser'.

El autor disecciona la hipócrita estructura del poder en su última novela.

The author dissects the hypocritical structure of power in his latest novel.

Metaphorical use of 'diseccionar'.

Es una hipócrita pretensión creer que somos superiores moralmente a nuestros antepasados.

It is a hypocritical pretense to believe that we are morally superior to our ancestors.

Noun phrase 'hipócrita pretensión'.

La sociedad a menudo castiga al sincero y premia al hipócrita que sabe jugar sus cartas.

Society often punishes the sincere and rewards the hypocrite who knows how to play their cards.

Substantive use of the adjective 'el hipócrita'.

Resulta dolorosamente hipócrita ver cómo se ignoran los derechos humanos por intereses económicos.

It turns out to be painfully hypocritical to see how human rights are ignored for economic interests.

Adverb 'dolorosamente' modifying the adjective.

No caigas en la hipócrita trampa de creer que tus motivos son siempre puros.

Don't fall into the hypocritical trap of believing that your motives are always pure.

Negative imperative 'no caigas' with a prepositional phrase.

La obra es una sátira mordaz sobre la hipócrita burguesía de la época.

The work is a biting satire on the hypocritical bourgeoisie of the time.

Use of 'mordaz' and 'burguesía'.

Se percibe una hipócrita disonancia entre sus proclamas filantrópicas y su praxis empresarial.

A hypocritical dissonance is perceived between his/her philanthropic proclamations and his/her business praxis.

Sophisticated vocabulary like 'disonancia', 'proclamas', and 'praxis'.

La hipócrita gestión de la verdad en tiempos de guerra es un tema recurrente en la historia.

The hypocritical management of truth in times of war is a recurring theme in history.

Complex subject 'La hipócrita gestión de la verdad'.

Bajo su apariencia de santidad, se escondía un hipócrita de la peor calaña.

Under his appearance of sanctity, a hypocrite of the worst kind was hidden.

Idiomatic expression 'de la peor calaña'.

La dialéctica del discurso político suele estar teñida de una hipócrita ambigüedad.

The dialectic of political discourse is usually tinged with a hypocritical ambiguity.

Metaphorical use of 'teñida de'.

No es sino una hipócrita estratagema para desviar la atención de sus propios escándalos.

It is nothing but a hypocritical stratagem to divert attention from his/her own scandals.

Structure 'No es sino...' (It is nothing but...).

El sistema legal, en su hipócrita imparcialidad, a menudo favorece al más poderoso.

The legal system, in its hypocritical impartiality, often favors the most powerful.

Oxymoronic phrase 'hipócrita imparcialidad'.

Su hipócrita desdén por lo material contrasta con su opulento estilo de vida.

His/Her hypocritical disdain for the material contrasts with his/her opulent lifestyle.

Contrastive structure using 'contrasta con'.

Common Collocations

sociedad hipócrita

actitud hipócrita

político hipócrita

discurso hipócrita

sonrisa hipócrita

moral hipócrita

ser un hipócrita

parecer hipócrita

llamar hipócrita

comportamiento hipócrita

Common Phrases

No seas hipócrita.

— A direct command telling someone to stop being insincere or inconsistent.

No seas hipócrita; tú también hiciste lo mismo ayer.

Es un hipócrita de marca mayor.

— Used to describe someone who is a massive or extreme hypocrite.

Ese jefe es un hipócrita de marca mayor; pide sacrificios pero él no hace nada.

La hipocresía no tiene límites.

— A common expression of frustration when someone acts in a very hypocritical way.

Después de lo que dijo, está claro que su hipocresía no tiene límites.

Suena un poco hipócrita.

— A softer way to point out that someone's statement seems inconsistent.

Lo que dices suena un poco hipócrita, ¿no crees?

¡Qué hipócrita eres!

— An exclamation of disbelief or anger at someone's hypocrisy.

¡Qué hipócrita eres! Me robaste la idea y ahora me felicitas.

Caer en la hipocresía.

— To become hypocritical, often unintentionally or due to social pressure.

Es fácil caer en la hipocresía cuando quieres quedar bien con todos.

Desenmascarar a un hipócrita.

— To reveal someone's true, inconsistent nature to others.

Finalmente lograron desenmascarar al hipócrita que dirigía la ONG.

Vivir en la hipocresía.

— To lead a life based on false appearances and moral inconsistency.

Mucha gente prefiere vivir en la hipocresía que enfrentar la realidad.

Un nido de hipócritas.

— A place or group full of hypocritical people.

Esa oficina es un nido de hipócritas; nadie se dice la verdad.

Sin hipocresías.

— To speak or act with total honesty, without pretense.

Hablemos claro y sin hipocresías sobre lo que está pasando.

Often Confused With

hipócrita vs mentiroso

A mentiroso tells lies; an hipócrita pretends to have morals they don't follow. You can be one without the other.

hipócrita vs cínico

A cínico doesn't care about looking bad; an hipócrita tries very hard to look good.

hipócrita vs hipoteca

A financial term for a mortgage. Completely unrelated but sounds similar at the start.

Idioms & Expressions

"Tener doble cara"

— To be two-faced; to act one way to someone's face and another behind their back.

No confíes en él, tiene doble cara.

informal

"Predicar y no dar trigo"

— To preach but not give wheat; to give advice that one does not follow.

Mi abuelo siempre decía que hay mucha gente que sabe predicar y no dar trigo.

colloquial

"Ver la paja en el ojo ajeno"

— To see the mote in someone else's eye but not the beam in your own; to criticize others for small faults while ignoring your own large ones.

Es muy fácil ver la paja en el ojo ajeno y ser un hipócrita.

neutral

"Ser un lobo con piel de cordero"

— To be a wolf in sheep's clothing; a dangerous person pretending to be harmless.

Ese político es un lobo con piel de cordero, un verdadero hipócrita.

neutral

"Dime de qué presumes y te diré de qué careces"

— Tell me what you boast about and I'll tell you what you lack; implying that people often boast about virtues they don't have.

Dice que es muy generoso, pero ya sabes: dime de qué presumes...

colloquial

"Tirar la piedra y esconder la mano"

— To throw the stone and hide the hand; to do something harmful and then pretend to be innocent.

Fue él quien empezó el rumor, siempre tira la piedra y esconde la mano.

colloquial

"Hacer la pelota"

— To suck up to someone; often involves hypocritical praise to gain an advantage.

Le hace la pelota al jefe todo el día, es un hipócrita.

informal

"Ser un sepulcro blanqueado"

— To be a whitewashed tomb; appearing beautiful on the outside but full of uncleanness inside (biblical origin).

Esos líderes religiosos son sepulcros blanqueados.

literary

"Andar con pies de plomo"

— To walk with lead feet; to be very cautious, often because you are around hypocritical or dangerous people.

En esa empresa hay que andar con pies de plomo con los compañeros hipócritas.

neutral

"Morderse la lengua"

— To bite one's tongue; often done to avoid calling someone a hypocrite to their face.

Tuve que morderme la lengua para no llamarlo hipócrita.

neutral

Easily Confused

hipócrita vs hipócrito

Learners assume masculine words must end in -o.

This word does not exist in Spanish. 'Hipócrita' is the only form for both genders.

Incorrect: Juan es hipócrito. Correct: Juan es hipócrita.

hipócrita vs crítico

Similar ending and also relates to judgment.

A 'crítico' is someone who evaluates or finds fault. An 'hipócrita' is someone who is inconsistent.

Él es muy crítico con los demás, pero no es un hipócrita.

hipócrita vs farsante

Both involve pretending.

A 'farsante' is more about an elaborate scam or fraud. An 'hipócrita' is more about moral pretense.

El farsante vendió medicina falsa; el hipócrita solo fingió que le importaba.

hipócrita vs disimulado

Both involve hiding something.

'Disimulado' means being discreet or sneaky. It doesn't necessarily involve a moral lie.

Entró de forma disimulada para no despertar a nadie.

hipócrita vs irónico

Both involve a gap between meaning and reality.

Irony is a literary or rhetorical device. Hypocrisy is a moral failing.

Fue irónico que el bombero tuviera un incendio en su casa.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + es + hipócrita.

Él es hipócrita.

No seas + hipócrita.

No seas hipócrita.

Me parece + hipócrita + que + [Subjunctive].

Me parece hipócrita que digas eso.

Es una postura + hipócrita + [Infinitive].

Es una postura hipócrita criticar sin ayudar.

Tachar de + hipócrita + a + [Noun].

Tacharon de hipócrita al director.

[Noun] + hipócrita + por excelencia.

Él es el político hipócrita por excelencia.

Bajo una máscara de [Virtue], se esconde un + hipócrita.

Bajo una máscara de bondad, se esconde un hipócrita.

La hipócrita [Abstract Noun] de [Group].

La hipócrita benevolencia de la aristocracia.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written Spanish.

Common Mistakes

Using 'hipócrito' for a man. → Use 'hipócrita' for both men and women.
This is the most common error. Adjectives ending in -a like 'hipócrita' do not change to -o. It is an invariant adjective.
Pronouncing the 'h' at the beginning. → Keep the 'h' completely silent.
In Spanish, 'h' is never pronounced. The word should start with the 'i' sound, like 'ee' in 'beet'.
Forgetting the accent mark on the 'ó'. → Always write 'hipócrita' with the accent.
Because the stress is on the third-to-last syllable, an accent is grammatically required. Omitting it is a spelling error.
Using 'hipócrita' when you mean 'mentiroso'. → Use 'mentiroso' for someone who just tells a lie.
An 'hipócrita' is specifically about moral inconsistency. If someone says they didn't eat the cake but they did, they are a 'mentiroso'. If they say eating cake is a sin while they have frosting on their face, they are an 'hipócrita'.
Confusing 'hipócrita' with 'hipoteca'. → Use 'hipoteca' for a house loan.
They sound similar but have completely different meanings. Calling your bank manager an 'hipoteca' might be funny, but it's not what you mean!

Tips

Gender Trap

Don't let the '-a' at the end fool you. It's for everyone! Just like 'dentista' or 'turista', 'hipócrita' is gender-invariant. This is a common mistake for English speakers, so mastering it will make you sound much more advanced.

Silent H

Pretend the 'h' isn't there. If you pronounce it like the English 'h', it will be very hard for native speakers to understand you. Start the word with a clean 'ee' sound. Practicing this silent 'h' is essential for many Spanish words.

The Magic Accent

Always write the accent on the 'ó'. It's what makes the word 'hipócrita' and not something else. In Spanish, accents are not optional; they are a core part of the spelling and pronunciation rules. Think of the accent as a little flag for the stressed syllable.

Choose Your Words

Before using 'hipócrita', ask yourself if the person is truly being a hypocrite or just lying. If they just told a lie, 'mentiroso' is better. If they are acting like a saint but aren't one, 'hipócrita' is the perfect word.

Social Weight

Be aware that calling someone an 'hipócrita' in a Spanish-speaking country can be a very serious insult. It's often seen as a challenge to their honor. Use it when you are certain and ready for the social consequences.

Using Intensifiers

To sound more like a native, use words like 'redomado' or 'total' with 'hipócrita'. 'Es un hipócrita redomado' sounds much more natural and emphatic than just saying 'Es un hipócrita'.

Context Clues

In fast speech, 'hipócrita' can sound like a blur. Listen for the 'PO' sound. If the conversation is about someone not doing what they said, you can bet the word is 'hipócrita'.

Tone Matters

When you use this word, your tone should match the meaning. It's usually said with a bit of a sharp edge or disappointment. Practice saying it with different emotions to see how the meaning changes slightly.

Literary Themes

When reading Spanish literature, keep an eye out for this word. It's often a key theme in stories about social classes or religious institutions. Understanding this word helps you unlock deeper meanings in the text.

Formal Alternatives

In a formal paper, you might want to use 'hipocresía' (the noun) rather than calling a specific person 'hipócrita'. For example, 'La hipocresía en el sistema...' sounds more professional than 'El sistema es hipócrita'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Hippo' wearing a 'Critter' mask. The Hippo is an actor, an 'hipócrita', pretending to be a small critter.

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding a smiling mask over a frowning face. The mask is the performance of the 'hipócrita'.

Word Web

mentira máscara teatro falsedad doble cara traición juzgar moral

Challenge

Try to find three examples of 'hipocresía' in a news article today and write them down in Spanish using 'hipócrita'.

Word Origin

From the Ancient Greek word 'hypokritēs' (ὑποκριτής), which literally meant 'an interpreter' or 'an actor'.

Original meaning: In Greek theater, an actor who wore a mask and played a part on stage.

Greek -> Latin (hypocrita) -> Spanish (hipócrita).

Cultural Context

Calling someone an 'hipócrita' is a strong personal attack. Use it with caution in social settings.

In English, 'hypocrite' is often used for religious or political contexts. In Spanish, it is used just as frequently in family and friendship dramas.

The character Tartuffe by Molière (translated as Tartufo in Spanish) is the archetypal hipócrita. Paquita la del Barrio's songs often address 'hipócritas'. Religious parables often warn against the 'hipocresía' of the Pharisees.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Politics

promesas incumplidas
doble discurso
corrupción moral
falta de ética

Friendship

traicionar la confianza
hablar a espaldas
ser un falso amigo
no ser de fiar

Workplace

competencia desleal
quedar bien con el jefe
hacer la pelota
ambiente tóxico

Religion

falsa piedad
cumplir por cumplir
juzgar al prójimo
falta de caridad

Self-reflection

ser honesto conmigo mismo
evitar la hipocresía
vivir con coherencia
admitir mis fallos

Conversation Starters

"¿Crees que los políticos son hipócritas por naturaleza o es el sistema?"

"¿Alguna vez has tenido un amigo que resultó ser un hipócrita?"

"¿Qué es lo más hipócrita que has visto en las redes sociales últimamente?"

"¿Es posible vivir en esta sociedad sin ser un poco hipócrita a veces?"

"¿Cómo reaccionas cuando alguien te llama hipócrita injustamente?"

Journal Prompts

Describe una situación en la que sentiste que estabas siendo hipócrita. ¿Por qué actuaste así?

Escribe sobre un personaje de un libro o película que sea un hipócrita y analiza sus motivos.

¿Cuál es la diferencia para ti entre ser un mentiroso y ser un hipócrita?

Reflexiona sobre la 'doble moral' en tu cultura. ¿En qué áreas es más común la hipocresía?

Imagina que confrontas a un hipócrita. Escribe el diálogo de esa conversación.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'hipócrito' is not a word in Spanish. 'Hipócrita' is an adjective that ends in -a for both men and women. For example, 'El hombre es hipócrita' and 'La mujer es hipócrita' are both correct.

In Spanish, words where the stress is on the third-to-last syllable are called 'esdrújulas'. All 'esdrújula' words must have a written accent mark. In 'hipócrita', the stress is on the 'pó', so the 'ó' gets the accent.

It is a strong word. It is a direct attack on someone's character and integrity. While it's common in arguments or political debates, you should avoid using it in professional or polite social settings unless you are prepared for a confrontation.

'Falso' is a more general term for someone who isn't genuine. 'Hipócrita' specifically refers to someone who pretends to have moral standards or virtues they don't actually follow. All hypocrites are fake, but not everyone who is fake is a hypocrite.

The noun form of 'hipócrita' is 'hipocresía'. Note that 'hipocresía' does not have an accent on the 'o', but it does have one on the 'í' because of the hiato (separation of vowels).

No, the letter 'h' is always silent in Spanish. The word is pronounced starting with the 'i' sound: /i-PO-cri-ta/.

Yes, it can. You can say 'Eres un hipócrita' (You are a hypocrite). In this case, it functions just like a noun.

There is no single verb like 'to hypocritize'. Instead, Spanish speakers use the verb 'ser' with the adjective: 'ser hipócrita', or the phrase 'actuar con hipocresía'.

The plural is 'hipócritas'. It follows the standard rule of adding an 's' to words ending in a vowel.

While 'hipócrita' itself isn't in many idioms, the concept is. Phrases like 'tener doble cara' or 'predicar y no dar trigo' are very common ways to describe hypocritical behavior.