The trickiest part about learning Spanish slang is that it is hyper-regional. Something innocuous in one dialect can mean something entirely different in another. Or it may just come across as complete gibberish. We’ve broken out this list of Spanish slang words by region, so you can sort by the geography that most interests you.

What are some Spanish slang words?

We have compiled a list of some of the most common Spanish slang words for your easy reference. Try to incorporate a few of these words into your daily speech until you feel 100% comfortable with how to use them appropriately.

Spanish slang words

What is slang

Slang is words or phrases that are used informally (more frequently in speech than writing) within a particular context or group of people. Spanish cultures have rich and colorful slang, which can take some getting used to for an outsider.

Why is slang used?

Slang is often used to build rapport with a group of people by using a subset of language that is unique to that group. It identifies you as a part of that group, and may also (sometimes) be used at the expense of outsiders. Learning Spanish vocabulary is imperative, but it’s just the first step. If you speak “textbook” Spanish out in the real world, you may come across as overly stiff or formal to a native Spanish speaker. Gradually incorporating Spanish slang words and phrases into your conversational Spanish may make you appear more approachable and down-to-earth. You do have to be careful though, because if you overdo it, you may not be taken seriously. Some of the terms may even be offensive if used incorrectly, directed towards the wrong person, or too frequently in your speech. Learn the slang, how to use it (and how not to use it), and gradually sprinkle it in. A little will go a long way!

Why is it important to learn Spanish slang?

Slang can be used to express a wide variety of emotions, including affection, exasperation, anger, excitement, and countless others. If you do not learn the Spanish slang of the region you are visiting, you are only limiting the range of your expression! It also makes you sound more “natural” when speaking Spanish in an informal setting, which will probably make you seem more down to earth and likable.

Where does Spanish slang come from?

Some slang words have their origin in old stories or fables, while others are references to more modern pop culture. Sometimes they come from other languages, such as the Ecuadorian slang word “chuchaqui”, or “hangover”, which is derived from the old Quechua word “chaqui”, or the pain that you feel after you chew on cocoa leaves. Sometimes they are portmanteaus, or a linguistic blend of words where different words or sounds are melded into a new word. Sometimes they are shortened versions or abbreviations of existing words, such as the Chilean slang word “po”, which is the shortened version of “pues” (“well” or “then”). Sometimes they seem to have just spontaneously emerged into the lexicon with no discernible origin story!

If you are going to be traveling to one of these countries, spend a little extra time focusing on learning the words that are used in that culture. Some of the phrases may cross boundaries, however. Test them out with some trusted friends before using them in the presence of strangers, just in case!

Other resources:
Spanish curse words.
Funny Spanish phrases.
How to say the color orange in Spanish.
How to say goodnight in Spanish.