Mimado vs. consentido vs. malcriado
The Spanish words 'mimado', 'consentido', and 'malcriado' all refer to the idea of a child being spoiled, but each one has subtle differences in connotation and usage.
Mimado
'Mimado' refers to a child who is spoiled in the sense of being over-indulged, particularly with affection and attention. It often has a neutral or slightly positive connotation, indicating that the child is loved and cared for.
Ella es muy mimada por sus padres.
(She is very spoiled by her parents.)
Es el más mimado de la clase.
(He is the most spoiled one in the class.)
Consentido
'Consentido' suggests a child who has been allowed to do whatever they want, even if it is not good for them. This term is usually perceived in a somewhat negative light but can also imply indulgence or leniency on the part of parents or guardians.
Siempre ha sido el consentido de la familia.
(He has always been the indulged one in the family.)
Es una niña consentida por sus abuelos.
(She's a girl spoiled by her grandparents.)
Malcriado
'Malcriado' refers to a child who behaves badly, usually because they have not been disciplined properly. It typically has a negative connotation indicating rudeness or ill manners which are usually attributed to poor upbringing.
El niño es muy malcriado y siempre interrumpe.
(The boy is very ill-mannered and always interrupts.)
Sus hijos son malcriados en público.
(Their children are rude in public.)
Summary
'Mimado', 'consentido', and 'malcriado' all refer to different aspects of being spoiled. While 'mimado' may refer to a child who receives excessive affection, 'consentido' could imply overindulgence and leniency from adults, leading to unintended bad behavior. Meanwhile, 'malcriado' carries the strongest negative connotation, referring directly to children who behave poorly due to lack of proper discipline.