estar harto
Lemma Details
Translation: to be fed up; to be sick of; to have had enough
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the Spanish verb 'estar' (to be) with the adjective 'harto' (full, satiated). 'Harto' derives from Latin 'fartus' (stuffed, filled), which is related to the Latin verb 'farcire' (to stuff). The English word 'fart' shares this etymological root, as it originally referred to filling something. The metaphorical extension to being 'full' of something to the point of annoyance or frustration is similar to English expressions like 'full of it' or 'stuffed to the gills' with something unpleasant.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 30%
Register: informal
Mnemonics
- Think of being so 'full' (harto) of something that you can't take anymore - like being stuffed with food but with frustration instead.
- Connect 'harto' with 'heart' - when you're 'estar harto' your heart is full of frustration.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This expression is very commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries to express frustration or annoyance with situations or people. It's slightly more emphatic than simply saying you're tired of something, conveying a stronger emotional response.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'estar harto' can mean being fed up or sick of something, 'estar lleno' specifically means to be full (of food).
Notes: 'Estar harto' is metaphorical, while 'estar lleno' is literal when referring to fullness.
Mnemonic: 'Harto' is for emotional fullness (frustration), while 'lleno' is for physical fullness.
Explanation: While 'estar harto' uses the temporary state verb 'estar', 'ser harto' (which is less common) would use the permanent state verb 'ser' and changes the meaning completely.
Notes: In some Latin American countries, particularly Chile, 'harto' with 'ser' can function as an intensifier meaning 'very' or 'quite'.
Mnemonic: 'Estar harto' = fed up (temporary feeling), 'ser harto' = very/quite (permanent quality).