Words and phrases in Spanish: Top common ‘Mexicanismos’ people say
January 19, 2024
Jean G. Fowler
Latest Modification Date: 1/19/24
Spanish is a diverse language full of lively and diverse expressions. As we shared before in the first part of the common words and phrases blog note, “Mexicanisms”, are adaptations of words in different parts of Mexico, and seem infinite and challenging to a foreigner who is learning.
While words may change depending on the context or location, worry not, we’re here to help with more examples of day-to-day phrases you may hear in conversations.
“Chale”: This one is probably in the top 5 phrases said by Mexicans nationwide. It is usually used to express disappointment, surprise, sadness, or anger.
“Pedo”: A phrase with different meanings depending on the context. Some use “qué pedo” to say hi colloquially, or even as an alternative for a surprise expression. Also the word “pedo”, which literally means “fart”, is used as a synonym for being drunk.
“Jalo”: While the word “jalo” means “to pull” in English, it is a common form of saying you’ll go somewhere or join a plan. For example: “Jalo a la fiesta contigo”; “I’ll go to the party with you”.
“Crudo”: The meaning of “crudo” would translate to “raw” in English, but in Spanish, people use it as an alternative for being hungover.
“La neta”: Used as an affirmation or question (“¿neta?”), this Mexicanism is related to the word truth. “La neta le dije todo” would translate as an alternative to “I really told them everything”.
“Qué gacho” or “no seas gacho”: Synonym of something being awful, ugly or terrible.
“Está perrón”: If you’ve heard the word “perro” you know that it refers to a dog, but when you translate it to Mexicanism, it is used to express that something is cool or amazing. Otherwise, when people express “está perro” it may refer to a complicated situation, so always pay attention to the tone and context.
“Está cañón”: Similar to “está perrón” o “perro”. It may be positive or negative, depending on the tone and context.
“Qué tranza”: A way to say hello informally. Also, the word “tranza” by itself may translate to fraud.
“Hueva”: To feel lazy to do something. “Me da hueva caminar a la tienda” would translate to “I am lazy to walk to the store.
If you want to learn more about the Spanish language and its common phrases, we are here to help you! We offer Spanish classes! Dare to learn and be part of Xpats.
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Words and phrases in Spanish: Top common ‘Mexicanismos’ people say
January 19, 2024
Jean G. Fowler
Words and phrases in Spanish: Top common ‘Mexicanismos’ people say
January 19, 2024
Jean G. Fowler
Spanish is a diverse language full of lively and diverse expressions. As we shared before in the first part of the common words and phrases blog note, “Mexicanisms”, are adaptations of words in different parts of Mexico, and seem infinite and challenging to a foreigner who is learning.
While words may change depending on the context or location, worry not, we’re here to help with more examples of day-to-day phrases you may hear in conversations.
“Chale”: This one is probably in the top 5 phrases said by Mexicans nationwide. It is usually used to express disappointment, surprise, sadness, or anger.
“Pedo”: A phrase with different meanings depending on the context. Some use “qué pedo” to say hi colloquially, or even as an alternative for a surprise expression. Also the word “pedo”, which literally means “fart”, is used as a synonym for being drunk.
“Jalo”: While the word “jalo” means “to pull” in English, it is a common form of saying you’ll go somewhere or join a plan. For example: “Jalo a la fiesta contigo”; “I’ll go to the party with you”.
“Crudo”: The meaning of “crudo” would translate to “raw” in English, but in Spanish, people use it as an alternative for being hungover.
“La neta”: Used as an affirmation or question (“¿neta?”), this Mexicanism is related to the word truth. “La neta le dije todo” would translate as an alternative to “I really told them everything”.
Latest Modification Date: 1/19/24
“Qué gacho” or “no seas gacho”: Synonym of something being awful, ugly or terrible.
“Está perrón”: If you’ve heard the word “perro” you know that it refers to a dog, but when you translate it to Mexicanism, it is used to express that something is cool or amazing. Otherwise, when people express “está perro” it may refer to a complicated situation, so always pay attention to the tone and context.
“Está cañón”: Similar to “está perrón” o “perro”. It may be positive or negative, depending on the tone and context.
“Qué tranza”: A way to say hello informally. Also, the word “tranza” by itself may translate to fraud.
“Hueva”: To feel lazy to do something. “Me da hueva caminar a la tienda” would translate to “I am lazy to walk to the store.
If you want to learn more about the Spanish language and its common phrases, we are here to help you! We offer Spanish classes! Dare to learn and be part of Xpats.
