elemento

[viveka]

I am so new at this. Thank you for letting me know how to post a new thread.
In response to the "elemento" usage, it is not a phrase, I remembered that in addition to saying that someone is "un cero a la izquierda" to wipe out someone in an insult, when I was growing up I heard the object of an insult referred to as "elemento". For example, if the person with the green dress steps on your toes more than once, you may say, "Que elemento, en el traje verde."

And this "elemento" goes for male or female alike. The "elemento" reduces the person to a mineral, an insentient thing.

I have not used this ever that I recall, but remember hearing it. And I find it hilarious, absolutely funny. And I wonder if it is commonly used in any other country that out friends could shed light. It may not be fun to be addressed as an element, but it surely is better than uglier options.

Paz,
viveka