Used to describe someone who does bad things or acts maliciously toward others, similar to calling them a jerk or a low-life. (In Venezuela, it typically refers to being mean-spirited or doing someone dirty.)
Dude, I cheated on my girlfriend with her friend. -Dude, you really are a RATA.
Refers to a person who is extremely sharp, street-smart, and full of wit. It describes someone with high mental agility who is almost impossible to trick or catch off guard.
Be careful negotiating with that guy because he is a RATA and he already knows all the tricks of the trade.
Used to describe a malicious or opportunistic person who acts dishonestly to take advantage of others. It refers to a treacherous individual who cannot be trusted.
Watch out for that guy because he is a complete RATA, he told me he was going to help me with the paperwork and all he did was keep my money.
A treacherous person who betrays the trust of friends or acquaintances to steal from them. It is a derogatory term for someone who takes advantage of hospitality or personal ties to walk off with other people's belongings.
Watch out for Nacho's cousin because he is such a RATA, the other time he took a cell phone in the middle of the party.
A term for the long-tailed rodent that typically lives in urban areas or inside homes. It refers to the animal that prowls for food or damages wiring and furniture.
Throw that bag of bread in the trash before a RATA gets in through the patio and makes a total mess.
A thief or mugger, often implying they are from a low-income background. It also refers to a rude, trashy, or extremely disrespectful person. (In Colombia, this is a common derogatory term for street criminals and lowlifes).
Yeah, yesterday some nasty RATA swiped my cell phone.
A cheapskate or stingy person who refuses to spend money even for small or necessary expenses despite having the means. It highlights a selfish and mean-spirited personality that goes to extremes to avoid opening their wallet.
Hey man, put in two pesos for the beer. No, that is too much. Come on man, do not be a RATA.