Repugnar vs. dar asco vs. asquear
The Spanish words repugnar, dar asco, and asquear all roughly translate as to disgust, but there are subtle differences in their usage and connotations.
Repugnar
B2Repugnar is a formal word to express strong dislike or aversion. It is often used to describe something that goes against one's moral or ethical standards.
Me repugna la idea de hacer trampa.
(The idea of cheating disgusts me.)
La corrupción en el gobierno me repugna.
(Corruption in the government disgusts me.)
Nos repugna cualquier tipo de violencia.
(We are disgusted by any type of violence.)
Dar asco
A2Dar asco literally translates as to give disgust. It's used in a more colloquial and informal setting to express intense dislike, typically for mundane things.
Me da asco comer verduras.
(Eating vegetables disgusts me.)
Los insectos me dan asco.
(Insects disgust me.)
Le da asco el olor a tabaco.
(The smell of tobacco disgusts him.)
Asquear
B1Asquear is also a less formal term with the meaning of feeling sick or nauseated due to severe dislike or distaste. It is often used to describe physical revulsion.
El olor del pescado podrido me asquea.
(The smell of rotten fish makes me sick.)
Este tipo de comportamiento me asquea.
(This type of behavior sickens me.)
Los baños públicos a menudo me asquean.
(Public restrooms often disgust me.)
Summary
In conclusion, while repugnar, dar asco, and asquear can all be translated to disgust, they carry different connotations. Repugnar is the most formal and often relates to moral or ethical issues, while dar asco and asquear can indicate a more informal or physical sense of revulsion.