Spanish Slang Explained in English

Spanish is a rich language full of cultural diversity and emotion. It’s also packed with some pretty interesting Spanish slang. While much of the slang used in Spanish does have a literal translation, the meaning is often far from what you’d expect. However, Spanish slang can help you connect with locals, adhere to cultural differences, and keep up with your Spanish-speaking friends. So, if you want to truly integrate into the beautiful world of Spanish, it’s time to brush up on your slang. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common slang in Spanish and what it means in English.

Common Spanish Slang Used Around the World

Although some of the meanings and words may vary, Spanish slang is used in every Spanish-speaking country around the world. While some Spanish slang words aren’t cuss words or insulting, per se, a good rule of thumb is to keep them for use amongst friends, family, or in casual situations and avoid using them in formal situations. You definitely don't want to use any slang when you're writing an email in Spanish! Some cool Spanish slang words around the world include the following:

Güey

This is one of the most commonly used Spanish slang words, especially in Mexico. It means something similar to “mate,” “bro,” or “friend” and is a great way to connect with locals whom you have some history with. It may also be written as wey.

Guay

This is another commonly used Spanish slang word from Spain. Although pronounced similarly, this is often used to say “amazing” or “cool.” It may also be used to show agreement with another person.

Vale

No list of Spanish slang words would be complete without “vale.” If you listen carefully, you’re likely to hear this in almost any conversation among friends or family members. It’s often used to agree or acknowledge someone, or something said in a conversation—similar to yea or okay but with a little more exclamation.

Venga

This is often used as a filler in Spanish slang and is usually quite neutral. It’s a great way to add an exclamation to any situation, especially during a fútbol match.

Cutre

Cutre is often used to describe things that you think are cheap, of bad quality, or even dirty. It can be used for all nouns.

Churri

This is used to describe a partner or significant other, in a very positive and loving way.

Chulo/Chula

This slang word originates in Spain as well. It’s often used to say something is “cool,” but may also be used to describe something as “attractive.” However, when describing a person, chulo may be used as a way to say they’re cocky, so make sure you differentiate the two!

Chela

This is a Spanish slang word that’s often used to say “beer.” You can also say cheve, as both are commonly used interchangeably. Of course, cerveza is always understood as well.

Guarro

When you want to describe someone as a pig or someone who is disgusting, you can use “guarro.” This Spanish slang word is also used to describe things or people that are literally not clean.

Guiri

Native Spanish speakers may use “guiri” when they want to talk about someone who is very obviously a foreigner or tourist. It essentially describes anyone who stands out from the locals and can be used both in a positive and negative way.

Liarse

When you want to have a super chilled, relaxed night, you can use the Spanish slang word “liarse.” However, be careful about how you use it, because when combined with a person it’s used to talk about hooking up!

Majo

This is an older Spanish slang word that goes way back. It’s used to describe someone who you think is friendly and nice.

Pavo/pavos

A common Spanish slang word used in European countries is pavo or pavos. It’s used as a way to say “1 euro” or “a buck.”

Spanish Slang Phrases and What They Mean

There are also some longer Spanish slang phrases whose literal translation is nothing like what it means. To help you get used to using them in conversation, download Tandem today! Some of the most common Spanish slang phrases include the following:

Mala pata

This Spanish slang phrase is used to describe someone’s bad luck.

Qué fuerte

Qué fuerte is one of the most commonly used Spanish slang phrases when you want to respond to something that you find shocking. It’s similar to, “how crazy!”

Qué mono

This phrase is used when you find something (pets, people, places, and even objects) adorable.

Es la leche

While this directly translates to “it’s the milk,” this phrase is used to talk about how great something is. However, if someone shouts “eres la leche” they are saying, “you’re unbelievable,” but not in a great way.

Llueve sobre mojado

Directly translated, this means “rain over a wet surface.” However, it’s often used equivalent to the English expression of “to beat a dead horse.”

¿Qué pedo?

Would you guess that this is a way to say “what’s up” in Spanish slang? Although it directly translates to “what fart,” it’s one of the more common greetings in Spanish, especially in cities throughout Mexico.

¿Qué hay?

This is another slang way to say “what’s up” that’s used in almost every Spanish-speaking country around the world.

A Few PG-13 Spanish Slang Words and Phrases

There are also several cool Spanish slang words that are used as insults or swear words. Remember, Spanish slang is best used amongst friends and in casual or informal settings, as some words can be slightly insulting. Maybe you’ve always wondered what does pinche mean in Spanish slang? Or what does punto mean in Spanish slang? Well, you’re about to find out. Just keep in mind that if you’re not sure whether it’s appropriate to use, stick to words in the dictionary. Some of the more “adult” Spanish slang words and phrases include the following.

Pinche

Chances are you’ve heard someone say pinche in a sentence. The literal translation is a bit vague, but it’s often used as a way to say “fucking” as an adjective. For example, “Mi pinche compañero de piso se comió mi pizza” actually means “My fucking roommate ate my pizza.”

Verga

This Spanish slang word is used to say “penis.” However, when used in phrases like “vales verga” it can be used to tell someone, “you’re useless.” Literally translated, vales verga means “you’re worth a dick.”

Pendejo

Pendejo literally translates to “pubic hair,” but that’s not how it’s used as slang in Spanish. Instead, it’s used as a way to call someone an idiot, but a little harsher. It may also be used as a way to call someone an asshole.

Punto

What does punto mean in Spanish slang? Well, it translates to point or dot, but it’s often used as a way to say, “pussy.”

Chingar

This Spanish slang word is quite versatile and can be used in several situations—both positive and negative. Mostly though, it just means “fuck.” When conjugated, “chinga tu madre” is used to say, “go fuck yourself.” However, the term “chingonazo” may be used to refer to someone whom you admire. When it comes to slang words, conjugating Spanish verbs can change their meaning, so try to be mindful of what you're saying.

Joder

This is another way to say “fuck” in Spanish, but can sometimes be considered even more crude.

No mames

Directly translated, this means “don’t suck it.” However, no mames is often used as a way to say “what the fuck” or “no fucking way.”

Gringo

Finally, what does gringo mean in Spanish slang? It’s often used as a way to say “foreigner.” While some people may use it lovingly, it tends to have a negative connotation.

Learning swear words in Spanish is a fun way to practice pronunciation, understand contextual content, and build your vocabulary. However, using them in the correct context is extremely important! To help you practice, download Tandem and match with a native speaker today. With millions of members across the world, you’re sure to find someone who can help you gain confidence when using Spanish slang. In fact, you may even find a new friend in the process!

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