Spanish word

lego

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈleɣo/

Meaning

  • masculine nounlayperson

Example

No soy un lego en esto.

I am not a layperson when it comes to this.

Illustration for lego (layperson)

More examples

Aunque al principio fui un lego en el tema, ahora participo con más confianza.

Although at first I was a layperson in this, I now participate with more confidence.

Core concept

Someone without specialist training.

Common phrases

  • ser un lego en esto

    be a layperson in this

  • un lego total

    a total layperson

Similar words

novato: Person who is new to an activity and has little practical experience.
principiante: Learner at the start of practice who is still acquiring basic skills.
profano: Nonexpert in a subject who lacks specialized knowledge or technical training.

Definition in Spanish

Persona que no tiene formación ni conocimientos especializados en un campo determinado.

Word origin

From medieval Latin based on Latin laicus 'of the people', the term moved from 'nonclerical' to the more general sense 'nonexpert'.

Usage tips

  • The feminine form 'lega' denotes a woman in this sense, and in casual speech Spanish speakers often prefer phrases like 'no soy experta' rather than labeling themselves 'lega' or 'lego'.

Other meanings

  • nonexpertnoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word