If you’re learning Mexican Spanish or planning to travel to Mexico, mastering some slang words and phrases will help you blend in and connect with locals on a deeper level. Mexican slang, known as jerga, is rich and colorful, often varying from region to region.
A Quick review of 24 Essential Mexican Slang words and Phrases will help you sound like a native speaker in no time.
1. ¡Qué onda!
Translation: What’s up?
- This is a casual greeting among friends, similar to “What’s up?” or “How’s it going?”
2. Chido
Translation: Cool
- If something is awesome or cool, you say it’s “chido.”
3. No manches
Translation: No way / You’re kidding
- Used to express surprise or disbelief, similar to “No way!” or “Are you serious?”
4. Órale
Translation: Wow / Come on / Alright
- A versatile phrase used to express amazement, agreement, or to encourage someone to hurry up.
5. Güey
Translation: Dude / Bro
- A common way to refer to someone casually, often between friends.
6. Neta
Translation: Truth / Seriously
- Used to confirm something, similar to “Really?” or “For real?”
7. Chela
Translation: Beer
- When you’re grabbing a beer with friends, you’ll ask for a “chela.”
8. Ahorita
Translation: In a little while / Right now
- Can mean anything from “right now” to “in a bit.” The meaning depends on the context.
9. Chamba
Translation: Job / Work
- If you’re talking about work, you’re talking about “la chamba.”
10. Fresa
Translation: Snob / Preppy
- Refers to someone who is stuck-up or acts privileged.
11. Buenazo
Translation: Awesome / Great
- Used to describe something or someone that is really good.
12. Cabrón
Translation: Badass / Jerk
- This word can be either positive or negative depending on the context and tone. Among friends, it can mean “badass,” but it can also be offensive if used in anger.
13. Chingón
Translation: Awesome / Cool / Badass
- Refers to something that is amazing or impressive.
14. Desmadre
Translation: Chaos / Mess
- Used to describe a situation that’s out of control or chaotic.
15. Padre
Translation: Cool
- Used to describe something awesome, similar to “chido” or “chingón.”
16. Qué padre
Translation: How cool
- A popular phrase to express that something is really cool or great.
17. Estar cañón
Translation: To be difficult / Intense
- Used to describe something that is challenging or tough.
18. Pedo
Translation: Drunk / Problem / Fart
- This versatile word has many meanings. “Estar pedo” means to be drunk, while “Qué pedo” can mean “What’s the problem?” or simply “What’s up?”
19. Bajarle de huevos
Translation: Calm down / Chill out
- A direct phrase telling someone to relax or calm down.
20. Qué hueva
Translation: How boring / What a drag
- Used to express boredom or disinterest in something.
21. Aguas
Translation: Watch out!
- A warning to be careful or pay attention, similar to “Heads up!”
22. Cuate
Translation: Buddy / Friend
- An informal way to refer to a friend or close companion.
23. Lana
Translation: Money
- Used to refer to cash or money, similar to “bucks” or “dough.”
24. Pura vida
Translation: Good vibes / Life is good
- A positive phrase to express that life is good and everything is great.
Conclusion
By incorporating these 24 Mexican slang words and phrases into your everyday conversations, you’ll sound more like a native speaker and make a great impression on locals. Mexican slang is full of character and color, giving you insight into the culture and making your interactions more fun and authentic.