Mexican Spanish is renowned for its vibrant expressions and playful slang. Understanding these commonly used Mexican slang phrases not only enriches your language skills but also provides a unique window into the culture. In this article, we will explore 20 popular Mexican slang phrases, their literal translations, actual meanings, and how they are used in everyday conversations. Whether you’re learning Mexican Spanish or planning a visit to Mexico, these phrases will help you connect more authentically with native speakers.
1. ¿Qué onda?
Literal Translation: “What wave?”
Actual Meaning: “What’s up?”
Usage: A casual greeting among friends, similar to asking “What’s happening?” or “How’s it going?” in everyday conversations.
2. Estoy crudo.
Literal Translation: “I’m raw.”
Actual Meaning: “I’m hungover.”
Usage: Commonly used the morning after a heavy night of drinking to describe feeling unwell. This is a must-know phrase for anyone exploring Mexican nightlife.
3. ¿Dónde es la peda?
Literal Translation: “Where’s the fart?”
Actual Meaning: “Where’s the party?”
Usage: A playful way to inquire about the location of a party or social gathering. It reflects the lively and social nature of Mexican culture.
4. ¿Tienes feria?
Literal Translation: “Do you have county fair?”
Actual Meaning: “Do you have money?”
Usage: A casual way to ask if someone has cash. This phrase is useful for everyday transactions and casual conversations about finances.
5. No tiene dos dedos de frente.
Literal Translation: “He doesn’t have two fingers of forehead.”
Actual Meaning: “He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.”
Usage: Used to describe someone who isn’t very intelligent or perceptive. This phrase highlights the creative nature of Mexican slang.
6. ¿Qué estás haciendo, güey?
Literal Translation: “What’s going on, castrated bull?”
Actual Meaning: “What’s going on, bro?”
Usage: “Güey” (pronounced “way”) is a common term for a friend, similar to “dude” or “bro.” It’s widely used in Mexican Spanish to address friends informally.
7. Esas son mamadas.
Literal Translation: “That’s blowjobs.”
Actual Meaning: “That’s crazy.”
Usage: Used to express disbelief or to describe something as ridiculous. It’s a colorful way to react to unexpected or outrageous situations.
8. ¡Es un pendejo!
Literal Translation: “He’s a pubic hair.”
Actual Meaning: “He’s an idiot.”
Usage: A strong insult used to call someone an idiot. It’s an example of the more intense side of Mexican Spanish slang.
9. ¡No manches!
Literal Translation: “Don’t stain!”
Actual Meaning: “Unbelievable!”
Usage: An exclamation of surprise or disbelief, similar to saying “No way!” It’s a versatile phrase used in many different contexts.
10. Estoy grifo.
Literal Translation: “I am faucet.”
Actual Meaning: “I am high.”
Usage: This term is used to describe being under the influence of drugs, particularly marijuana. It’s part of the casual slang associated with drug culture in Mexico.
11. ¡A huevo!
Literal Translation: “To egg!”
Actual Meaning: “Hell yeah!”
Usage: Expresses excitement or strong agreement. It’s commonly used to show enthusiasm or to affirm something with gusto.
12. ¡Dale, cabrón!
Literal Translation: “C’mon, big goat!”
Actual Meaning: “C’mon, you bastard!”
Usage: Used to urge someone to do something, often with a sense of urgency or frustration. It reflects the passionate and direct nature of Mexican interactions.
13. No hay pedo.
Literal Translation: “There’s no fart.”
Actual Meaning: “There’s no problem.”
Usage: A relaxed way to say everything is fine or that there is no issue. It’s useful for assuring someone that things are okay.
14. ¿Qué pedo?
Literal Translation: “What fart?”
Actual Meaning: “What’s up?”
Usage: Similar to “¿Qué onda?”, it’s a casual greeting used to ask how someone is doing or what is happening.
15. Culero.
Literal Translation: “Ass salesman.”
Actual Meaning: “Asshole.”
Usage: A harsh insult used to describe someone who is particularly unpleasant or annoying. It’s a term that should be used with caution due to its strong connotation.
16. ¡Me vale madres!
Literal Translation: “I don’t care mothers!”
Actual Meaning: “I don’t give a fuck!”
Usage: Expresses a strong sense of indifference or disregard. It’s a way to convey that you don’t care about a particular issue.
17. ¡No mames!
Literal Translation: “Don’t suck!”
Actual Meaning: “No fucking way!”
Usage: An exclamation of disbelief or frustration. It’s used to react to something that is hard to believe or frustrating.
18. ¡Aguas!
Literal Translation: “Waters!”
Actual Meaning: “Be careful!”
Usage: A warning to be cautious or watch out. It’s often used to alert someone to potential danger or a tricky situation.
19. Te crees muy muy.
Literal Translation: “You think you’re very, very.”
Actual Meaning: “You think you’re a badass?”
Usage: A sarcastic remark used to call out someone who is acting overly confident or arrogant.
20. A la verga.
Literal Translation: “That penis over there.”
Actual Meaning: “Ahh shit.”
Usage: An expression of frustration, anger, or surprise. It’s similar to saying “Damn it” or “Oh, shit” in English.
Conclusion
Understanding and using these 20 commonly used Mexican slang phrases will give you valuable insights into the lively and expressive nature of Mexican Spanish. These phrases reflect the playful and culturally rich aspects of everyday Mexican conversations. Whether you’re learning Mexican Spanish to connect with friends, better understand Mexican media, or navigate social situations in Mexico, mastering these expressions will enhance your communication and help you appreciate the nuances of the language.
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P.S. Love learning about slang? You might also enjoy exploring 16 Cuban Slang Phrases—a fun guide to the colorful and playful expressions of Cuban Spanish!
