Avaricioso vs. codicioso vs. avaro
The Spanish words avaricioso, codicioso and avaro all share the basic definition of greedy, especially when it comes to monetary and power. However, they each carry slightly different nuances, and their usage can depend on connotations and context.
Avaricioso
B2An avaricioso individual is primarily greedy for money. The word is often used to describe someone who hoards wealth and is reluctant to part with it.
El avaricioso hombre no quería compartir su fortuna.
(The greedy man didn't want to share his fortune.)
Su avaricia lo condujo a la soledad.
(His greed led him to loneliness.)
Codicioso
B1Codicioso is a broad term for greediness, not always restricted to money or material possessions. It may denote a strong desire or longing for anything such as power, food, knowledge, etc.
El rey codicioso quería más y más poder.
(The greedy king wanted more and more power.)
Ella es una estudiante codiciosa que siempre busca aprender más.
(She is a greedy student who always seeks to learn more.)
Avaro
B2Avaro is a noun that specifically refers to a person who accumulates wealth and avoids spending it, similar to the English word miser. It carries stronger negative connotation than avaricioso.
El avaro vive solo en su gran hotel.
(The miser lives alone in his big mansion.)
La gente del pueblo odiaba al avaro por su falta de generosidad.
(The people in the town hated the miser for his lack of generosity.)
Summary
While avaricioso, codicioso, and avaro all denote some form of greed, their usage can vary based on context. Avaricioso and avaro are often used with respect to monetary greed, with the latter having stronger negative connotations. Codicioso could refer to yearning or intense desire for just about anything.