rascal
word
/ˈɹæskəɫ/
RAS-kuhl
/ɹˈɑːskəl/
RAHS-kuhl
Definition
A 'rascal' is someone, often a child, who behaves in a playful but slightly naughty or mischievous way. It can also mean someone who is dishonest, but it's usually said with affection.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly informal and affectionate when used for children or friends; can be mildly insulting if used about adults. Commonly paired with 'little' as in 'little rascal.' Avoid using for serious wrongdoing.
Spanish: pícaro - bribón - pilloPortuguese (BR): moleque - patife - trapaceiroPortuguese (PT): maroto - patife - traquinasChinese (Simplified): 小淘气 - 捣蛋鬼Chinese (Traditional): 小淘氣 - 搗蛋鬼Hindi: शरारती - बदमाशArabic: وغد - مشاغبBengali: দুষ্টু - চাঁনপান (অন্তরঙ্গ অর্থে)Russian: проказник - шалун - плутJapanese: いたずらっ子 - やんちゃ坊主Vietnamese: nhóc ranh - thằng nhóc tinh nghịchKorean: 말썽쟁이 - 장난꾸러기Turkish: yaramaz - afacanUrdu: شرارتی - شرارتی لڑکاIndonesian: bandel - nakal - anak nakal
Example Sentences
That little rascal hid my keys again.
basic
He’s a real rascal but you can’t help loving him.
natural
Those two rascals skipped class to go to the arcade.
natural
My dog is such a rascal, always stealing socks.
basic
Come here, you little rascal!
basic
You cheeky rascal, did you eat all the cookies?
natural