WITH AN EDGE - CON RETINTÍN

 

Say with an edge / Decir algo con rintintín (retintín)

The English expression to say something with an edge conveys a tone sharpened by irony, irritation, or subtle hostility. Its Spanish counterpart, decir algo con rintintín (or retintín), captures much the same nuance: a remark tinged with intention, often suggestive, mocking, or faintly malicious.

Examples:

• David answered the question with an edge.
  David ha contestado a la pregunta con retintín.
• “The woman asks with accented English, now with an edge to her voice.” Pam Jenoff, A Hidden Affair (2010)
• “Y añadió con retintín: ‘Eres apuesto, sí, pero bajito.’” Terenci Moix, El arpista ciego (2002)

In both languages, the emphasis lies not on what is said, but on how it is said: tone becomes meaning. The Spanish retintín often leans toward irony or sly provocation, while the English edge may range from mild sharpness to open annoyance. In either case, the speaker’s intention cuts just beneath the surface of the words.