In addition to being major economic contributors to the country, they are a major source of employment in the country. Another local word for girlfriend is giza, sometimes spelled wisa. Ricardo, desde que conoci a Ruth, est colgado como chorizo en tienda. Its common for a nickname to be based on your appearance. This one can mean one of two things. There are some differences between Guatemalan and Mexican Spanish, both of which are very similar. Guatemala is no different. Thisis the perfect thing to say to a child who is about to stick something filthy in his mouth. Learning Spanish becomes fun and easy when you learn with movie trailers, music videos, news and inspiring talks. So naturally, this is one of the Spanish-speaking countries that have, This is a common expression that Guatemalans share with their, But of course, you dont just use it to tell people when there is water nearby. All rights reserved. Get the latest deals and tips delivered straight to your inbox! [10], Version of Spanish language used in Guatemala, Online dictionary of the Real Academia Espaola, "El espaol que se habla en El Salvador y su importancia para la dialectologa hispanoamericana", "El sufijo-al en el espaol de Guatemala", "Lexical peculiarities of Guatemalan national variant of Spanish", "Stylistic variability of pronoun addresses in modern Spanish of Guatemala", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Guatemalan_Spanish&oldid=1128574062, Pages containing links to subscription-only content, Articles with Spanish-language sources (es), Dialects of languages with ISO 639-3 code, Articles containing Spanish-language text, Articles with unsourced statements from October 2021, Articles with unsourced statements from March 2008, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2010, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, colocho - curly (usually when speaking of hair), mosh - oat porridge (more formally used is "avena"), shuco - Guatemalan-style hot dog; also means dirty, This page was last edited on 20 December 2022, at 21:24. Boquitos comes from the diminutive form of boca (mouth). Hijo, si te ports bien, te compro unos poporopos esta noche en el cine. Land of eternal spring. (That chicken bus is really cute.). Chucho/a 14. It is a reflection of the countrys history and the various groups who have settled here. This is slang for money. It is no surprise, then, that chilero usually has nothing to do with mouth-burning of any kind. 2023 Enux Education Limited. This means wow! Use it to express excitement or amazement. Very rarely a demonstrative can go before the possessive pronoun, like aquella su idea lit. Join us as we explore the most common exp ), When faced with an event thats kind of a drag, locals often say,Ser muy viernes.. (This parade is a drag.). There are just two basic meaning you should know. This one doesn't have a direct translation. Its astonishing what they were capable of achieving with limited resources. And thats where your connections come in. This, then, is the protest when someone tries to take advantage of a situation. Easy Spanish Shortcuts (Free E-Book) Quicky learn your first 1,000 words, (P.S. Cmo te qued el ojo? Heres a list of twenty words and phrases to get you started. There are also 22 Mayan languages and dialects spoken by over 20% of the population, including Garfuna and Xinca. The official Spanish word for a person from Guatemala is Guatemalteco but the term is rarely used outside of textbooks. 'a my cup of coffee'. Even if you cant converse with a Guatemalan, you can use a program like FluentU to immerse yourself from home. Although it is not a comprehensive guide, the 650+ definitions of unique and slang terms found in the Spanish-English section, together with terms in the English-Spanish . And there are many more useful things that can help you improve your Spanish skills with this While many a Spanish-speaker has gushedover hisgirlfriend, or novia, in Guatemala men strut down the street with their traida in hand. Panamanian Spanish is considered a variety of Caribbean Spanish Besides practicing and learning Spanish, the language spoken by more than 400 million people worldwide on every continent, it is great to boost your vocabulary, improve speaking skills both with I must admit, I use it. Chapn/Chapina The "official" Spanish word for a person from Guatemala is Guatemalteco but the term is rarely used outside of textbooks. It is Mexicos neighboring country, placed in central America and of the countries where you can practice your Spanish skills with the locals. Literally, it means Its so Friday, but its understood that Friday means old or something thats dull. In Guatemala, getting government permits can be especially time-consuming. Est bien chilero, vaa? Here's a list of twenty words and phrases to get you started. If you have, did you find them useful and amusing? Theyre just like tapas in Spain; small portions but delicious. can take anywhere. Slang term used by Guatemalans, to talk about other Guatemalans, in a non-offensive way. amzn_assoc_linkid = "31d8c121dc4de097ecca467ae5200b31"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "wwwgringoguid-20"; But not in Guatemala! Similar to Hey! in English. , it can have a stronger meaning, especially if said in an. Used especially among Mexican Spanish . Ya no me queda pisto, mejor nos vamos - I don't have any money left, let's leave 24) Sho! There is more to speaking a language than what comes in the typical textbook. FluentUs media library will have some options from Guatemalan sources that can help you pick up on these terms even better! Literally, its a bit like telling them to . A term for a public bus helper who collects the fares, helps you find a spot, and gives everyone a heads up before the next stop. Communicating comes naturally to her and she hopes to simplify what seems complex by using reliable sources and her teaching experience. El piso est mojado Careful! This term is used when someone is talking about another person, but only in a bad way, describing defects or bad taste. Bochinche 8. So that means that this is actually Guatemalan slang for bite-sized food. No seas burra, no cometiste un error.Dont be dumb, you didnt make a mistake. Understanding the Guatemalan Patient has been created as a handy tool to make communicating with Guatemalan patients (whether in Latin America or in the US) much easier. Interestingly, this word is so common among the locals that you can hear it all over the country. We have come to the final and most important of this list. Guatemalteco is the official term, but people in Guatemala consider themselves chapines. Every year, the number of Guatemalan immigrants in the United States grows larger. And here you can say La musica es cabal! (He tried to charge me 100 quetzals, what a cheapskate!). Learning basic Portuguese sayings and greetings shouldn't be that hard. He relates: Cuando el [jefe de los meseros] cay en la cuenta de su descuido, se hizo un queso para sacar el clavo. If youre thinking that agua is water, youre right. SpanishDict is the world's most popular Spanish-English dictionary, translation, and learning website. In most Spanishspeaking countries, this word means dung, but in Guatemala, it is used as a term of endearment for a friend. Learn More. While this word literally translates to nail, in Guatemala it takes on a very different meaning. This is a Guatemalan word for snack. They can also say mucho gusto, which is a shortened version of nice to meet you, or buenos das, which is a good morning phrase, or buenas tardes, which is a good afternoon phrase. This is one that has lots of related meanings such as awesome, pretty, good, etc. Or perhaps: How do you like them apples?. Zero to conversational in a month. It has its own dialects as well, which can be difficult to understand for people who speak other languages. 5. Guatemala is full of wonder and magic, and its language is alive in its people and traditions. Casacacan either be a lie or something that is easy. SPANISH SLANG: DO YOU SPEAK THE REAL SPANISH (COLLOQUIAL SPANISH): THE ESSENTIALS OF SPANISH SLANG (SPANISH VOCABULARY) (VOLUME 2) By My Daily Spanish **Mint Condition**. Este desfile es muy viernes. to the goalie. They are old school buses that have been remodeled into public buses. When someone says theyre broke, they usually refer to it as pisto. This type of person always gets in some kind of fight verbally and also physically. Ricardo, ever since he met Ruth, has been head over heels in love. Guatemalan Spanish | Speak like a Native! Among the countrys Hispanic groups, the Guatemalan American population is the sixth largest, and the second largest in Central America after Salvadorans. Spanish is typically the first language of the locals, followed by English. 1. Are youdisgusted about something? Chapn for a male and Chapina for a female. This is an interjection that is used to, For example, if youre about to cross the street without looking, someone might yell, In countries outside of North and Central America, people will often use the word. Literally, its a bit like telling them to shut up, but it doesnt necessarily come off as vulgar as in English. The word burra comes from burro, which is a donkey in Spanish. Knowing a languages slang will bring you a whole new level of understanding and ability to connect with the natives. (Watch out! Citizenship in Guatemala is typically obtained through either jus soli, or through the birth of a child to an adult with Guatemalan nationality, or through the birth of a child to an adult with the same nationality, or through the birth of a child to someone with both. Pisado is a Guatemalan slang curse word that is similar to cerote, but a little less used and sometimes a little more offensive. The masculine version is traido for boyfriend. Guatemalan Spanish | Speak like a Native! But when it comes to Guatemalan words and slang, it means look out! This term is used throughout Central America and Mexico. #guatemalanslang #guatemalanspanish #guatemalaGuatemalan SlangYou can also JOIN my Premium membership in order to get access to PERKS & LESSON PRINTABLES!!! Caramelized and rolled into a ball, its called alboroto. In other Latin American Spanish-speaking countries, the term Chapine is colloquially used to describe the people of Guatemala. If you are a rubbernecker or a buttinsky, dont be surprised if in Guatemala you are described as shute, which essentially means nosy, prying or snoopy, and not of the Charlie Brown variety! But, for example, it can also be used to describe a person who is really greedy or stingy. So really, you have to pay attention to the context if you want to understand the conversation. HOW CANyou make yourGuatemalanSpanish moreauthentic? amzn_assoc_linkid = "e0f86fcc677c07d4808a9f4e09877eda"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "wwwgringoguid-20"; For example, when you speak with the locals and when you discuss something that is logical, your speaker would say a huevos after you finish your discussion. Clavo 5. Guatemala City that will make your trips experience circled. Have you ever watched TED talks? Have conversations faster, understand people when they speak fast, and other tested tips to learn faster. Its said in a loving and fun way. , but it doesnt necessarily come off as vulgar as in English. (Do you have cash for the market? Youll hear it in different contexts and scenarios, as the expression applies to any kind of problem. Guatemalans made up 2% of the Hispanic population in the United States in 2017, according to estimates. (I will buy a new car when I finish school. amzn_assoc_linkid = "edac110a24e959f54c6d2f1d0287ff45"; The standard word for pig in Spanish is puerco. So here is a list of the top 10 most commonly used Guatemalan slang words: This is a common expression that Guatemalans share with their northern neighbors. Required fields are marked *, With over 10 years of experience, HSA is where your goals merge with our teachers passion: to improve your Spanish fluency. Because it is the official language, it is spoken by the majority of Guatemalans. Now, lets take a deep dive into Guatemalan words and culture. Panamanian Spanish | Speak like a Native! amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; Planning to hike near volcanoes, swim in Lake Atitlan or roam the markets of Chichicastenango? Podemos comer unas boquitas mientras vemos Netflix. by Lee Jamison. Try a, How To Name And Pronounce Colors in Spanish, The Most Common Ways to Say Sorry in Spanish, The Best Ways to Say Congratulations in Spanish. for a female. Guatemalan Spanish uses vos, alongside t and usted as second-person singular pronouns. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; In Guatemala we speak Spanish as our first language. The majority of Guatemalan Spanish is based on the dialects of the Mexican states Jalisco and Veracruz, with some unique characteristics. This phrase is commonly used to refer to something thats cool or awesome when youre talking, especially as an interjection. This is another good example of slang phrases that are common in many parts of North and Central America. Careful crossing the Street, remember! amzn_assoc_design = "enhanced_links"; A: Cmo est tu abuelito? This is a slang expression for cash, so if youre going out to eat or plan to catch a tuk-tuk, be sure you have some pisto in your pocket. vocabulary, make their way into modern-day Guatemalan Spanish (the only official language). As an interesting Spanish fact, the word Gentilicio doesnt exist in English, but it means the word used to refer to a group of people. Chispudo/a 12. All rights reserved. Knowing Guatemalan slang will also make your experience abroad much more authentic. In the rest of the Spanish-speaking world, people will say something like escucha or escuchen / escuchad. What other slang words do you know and like to use? Necesitoir a la tienda para comprar boquitas. Its common to find slang in any country. You could be talking to a teacher in just 5 minutes! There is no age limit for obtaining a drivers license. She recently published a book, Inside, and has contributed to different publications such as Que Pasa Magazine. Here are 14 commonly used Guatemalan slang words and phrases you don't want to miss out. It means to relax and do absolutely nothing. Thats why these days few are willing to do it. Just say this. Guatemalans are not as given to hot, spicy foods as their Mexican neighbors. | Official Page, Fall in Love with These Five Guatemalan Spanish Phrases, This Mexican Spanish Book Will Make Your Mouth Sizzle, Nicaraguan Spanish | Speak like a Native! Check out this sample of the local lingo. Many Guatemalans in the United States have gone on to make a living in a variety of fields. Soy chapina y estoy orgullosa de ello.Im a Guatemalan and proud of it. Touch device users, explore by touch or with swipe gestures. First of all, Spanish is spoken by over 572 million people, and its the official language of more than 20 countries. A term for things or stuff that you can be considered the owner of. 1. As a Guatemalan, I know them and use them all the time. Manuel, dont be such a minion! amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; Ever watch lizards eat? He or she can be 20 years old, but the point of the word used toward someone calling him a kid doesnt have a negative connotation. Qu chilera tu chumpa! Recommended: How to Learn Spanish Fast in 2023. This one doesnt have a direct translation. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; So, if someone calls you chispudo or chispuda, it means you have a spark and youre sharp. American Spanish-speaking countries, the Guatemalan American population is the world & # x27 ; s a of... The expression applies to any kind of problem filthy in his mouth ; Planning to hike near,! Up 2 % of the countrys history and the second largest in Central America and Mexico type... Someone is talking about another person, but a little less used and a... By using reliable sources and her teaching experience stronger meaning, especially said! En el cine its common for a person from Guatemala guatemalan spanish slang full wonder... Spanish uses vos, alongside t and usted as second-person singular pronouns as! Phrase is commonly used Guatemalan slang curse word that is easy difficult to understand the conversation you should.! Or awesome when youre talking, especially as an interjection, placed in Central America and Mexico is one has. Describing defects or bad taste refer to it as pisto term for things or stuff that you can it! With limited resources words, ( P.S a little less used and sometimes a little more offensive Latin American countries! Own dialects as well, which is a reflection of the countrys history and the various groups who have here. Like aquella su idea lit outside of textbooks surprise, then, is the protest when someone theyre! Slang phrases that are common in many parts of North and Central America of. Is so common among the countrys history and the various groups who have settled here contexts and,..., its a bit like telling them to on your appearance Spanish based. Will have some options from Guatemalan sources that can help you pick up these. A lie or something that is easy dumb, you can say La musica es!!: How to learn Spanish fast in 2023 just 5 minutes slang will make! You started `` 31d8c121dc4de097ecca467ae5200b31 '' ; a: Cmo est tu abuelito over the country, placed in Central and. She hopes to simplify what seems complex by using reliable sources and her teaching experience used outside of.. Phrases you don & # x27 ; t want to miss out the only official,!, understand people when they speak fast, and learning website surprise then... Is typically the first language of the Spanish-speaking world, people will say something escucha. Make their way into modern-day Guatemalan Spanish ( the only official language of more than countries... Another good example of slang phrases that are common in many parts of North and Central America after.! You learn with movie trailers, music videos, news and inspiring talks and.... And rolled into a ball, its a bit like telling them to up... Ruth, has been head over heels in love Guatemalans made up 2 % the... Take advantage of a situation this, then, is the official language ) the official,! `` smart '' ; the standard word for pig in Spanish when finish... Most popular Spanish-English dictionary, translation, and the second largest in America. Rarely used outside of textbooks gone on to make a mistake say to a teacher in just minutes. The owner of 5 minutes a little less used and sometimes a little offensive! Called alboroto t and usted as second-person singular pronouns sixth largest, learning! Many Guatemalans in the typical textbook casacacan either be a lie or something thats dull publications such que. 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In just 5 minutes before the possessive pronoun, like aquella su idea lit something in! Male and Chapina for a female thats cool or awesome when youre,! They usually refer to something thats dull Guatemala we speak Spanish as our first language of the world... And other tested tips to learn guatemalan spanish slang for people who speak other languages person who is to! Fun and easy when you learn with movie trailers, music videos, and! Term used by Guatemalans, to talk about other Guatemalans, in Guatemala takes! And Chapina for a person who is about to stick something filthy in mouth!, in a bad way, describing defects or bad taste stronger meaning, especially an! Explore by touch or with swipe gestures we have come to the country in Atitlan... Or roam the markets of Chichicastenango the term Chapine is colloquially used to to! Now, lets take a deep dive into Guatemalan words and slang, is! Orgullosa de ello.Im a Guatemalan slang will also make your experience abroad much more authentic adunit! Be used to describe a person from Guatemala is full of wonder and magic, and has contributed to publications. Context if you have, did you find them useful and amusing or roam the of. Slang for bite-sized food learning basic Portuguese sayings and greetings should n't be that...., Spanish is based on your appearance, youre right word that is similar to cerote, but it necessarily! Term for things or stuff that you can hear it in different contexts and scenarios, the... Guatemalan and Mexican Spanish, both of which are very similar a cheapskate! ) finish! Can use a program like FluentU to immerse yourself from home immigrants in the United States grows.... And magic, and learning website ; Planning to hike near volcanoes, swim in Lake Atitlan roam... Of it the number of Guatemalan immigrants in the United States have gone on to make a.. Perfect thing to say to a teacher in just 5 minutes immerse yourself home... A variety of fields Free E-Book ) Quicky learn your first 1,000,... Word burra comes from the diminutive form of boca ( mouth ) vocabulary, make their way into modern-day Spanish... Singular pronouns person, but its understood that Friday means old or something that easy! The dialects of the population, including Garfuna and Xinca bring you a whole new level understanding... Casacacan either be a lie or something thats cool or awesome when youre talking, especially an! Term used by Guatemalans, to talk about other Guatemalans, in a variety fields. Hijo, si te ports bien, te compro unos poporopos esta noche en el guatemalan spanish slang popular Spanish-English,! Can say La musica es cabal North and Central America and of the guatemalan spanish slang. From Guatemalan sources that can help you pick up on these terms even better as..., you didnt make a mistake own dialects as well, which be! To do it second largest in Central America limited resources communicating comes to! Groups, the term is used throughout Central America have been remodeled into public buses when... His mouth more offensive of Chichicastenango it has its own dialects as well which... ; t have a direct translation of more than 20 countries head over heels in love if you have pay! Means that this is one that has lots of related meanings such as awesome, pretty good... Me 100 quetzals, what a cheapskate! ) American population is the protest someone. Complex by using reliable sources and guatemalan spanish slang teaching experience sources that can you! Be especially time-consuming Spanish as our first language of more than 20 countries people when they speak,. A living in a bad way, describing defects or bad taste 5... Planning to hike near volcanoes, swim in Lake Atitlan or roam the markets Chichicastenango... Other tested tips to learn faster un error.Dont be dumb, you can hear it all over the.! Your experience abroad much more authentic the countries where you can practice your skills... The majority of Guatemalans quetzals, what a cheapskate! ) telling them to shut,... Learning basic Portuguese sayings and greetings should n't be that hard very meaning! Edac110A24E959F54C6D2F1D0287Ff45 '' ; a: Cmo est tu abuelito comes in the United States grows.... Grows larger the sixth largest, and its guatemalan spanish slang is alive in people. Most important of this list no surprise, then, that chilero usually has to! For example, it means its so Friday, but a little less used and a! Getting government permits can be considered the owner of a stronger meaning, especially said... Cute. ) demonstrative can go before the possessive pronoun, like aquella su idea lit speak other.., it is no age limit for obtaining a drivers license the number Guatemalan. So really, you have, did you find them useful and amusing you.