Correct my English: A Bitch is not a Puta

Dear Ms. Church

My friends believe that the Portuguese word "puta" translates as "bitch" in English.  I dont think this is true.  I think that "puta" means "whore" in English.

Gentle Reader

While Ms. Church usually does not answer questions related to translation, she will in this case, as this is a common misconception among Brazilians new to speaking English.  You are inded correct and your friends are misguided.  The word "bitch" in English slang has generally no sexual connotation.  It is used in a derogatory sense to refer to a woman.  For example, "Yo, get away from my bitch." It has also (more recently) taken on the meaning of one in a supporting or subservient role, male or female:  "John got promoted so I guess I now gotta be his bitch".  The adjectival term "bitchy" is also common and usually refers to someone (usually female) in an ill tempered mood. Yes, I would agree that a "puta" would be better translated as a "whore" or "slut".

Do you have a question about English?   Ask Ms. Church.