Spanish Phrase
Es una peli que da miedo.
Meaning
This expression uses the colloquial shortening 'peli' for 'película'. It utilizes the structure 'dar miedo' (to give fear), which is the standard way to say something is scary in Spanish, rather than using an adjective.
When to use
Use this phrase in casual conversations with friends when discussing cinema, Netflix shows, or stories that are frightening.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Esunapeliquedamiedo
Peli
Informal abbreviation of 'película'. It maintains the feminine gender of the original word.
Dar miedo
The verb 'dar' (to give) is paired with nouns like 'miedo', 'risa', or 'pena' to describe the effect something has on your emotions.
🗨In Conversation
¿Vemos esa película de payasos?
Shall we watch that clown movie?
¡No! Es una peli que da miedo y no podré dormir.
No! It's a scary movie and I won't be able to sleep.
✕Common Mistakes
Es una película miedosa.
The word 'miedoso' describes a person who is easily scared, not a movie that causes fear.
Es una peli que tiene miedo.
Objects cannot 'have' fear; use 'dar' to indicate the object causes fear in others.
↔Alternatives
Es una película de terror.
It's a horror movie.
Me da escalofríos.
It gives me the chills.
Cultural Tip
In Spain and many Latin American countries, shortening nouns is very common in informal speech. 'Peli' is almost always used instead of 'película' in relaxed settings. Additionally, 'dar miedo' is much more common than using the formal adjective 'aterrador'.