Literal Meaning

Extremely harsh or cruel; severe

Actual Meaning

Amazing, incredible (positive slang)

Context

Used when emphasizing the excellence of an experience or quality.

Examples

• "El concierto de anoche fue brutal, nunca había escuchado algo tan poderoso."
• "¡Esa fiesta estuvo brutal! Me divertí muchísimo bailando con mis amigos."
• "Tu nuevo corte de cabello se ve brutal, te queda perfecto."

Tips

• This term is quite colloquial and is commonly used among young people, so you might not see it in formal situations.
• Sometimes, 'brutal' can be used in an ironic context, so pay attention to the tone of voice of the person using it.
• The use of 'brutal' is usually very positive, so don't worry if someone says it with enthusiasm. It's a sign that they liked something.