Ultimate Guide to Spanish Slang
If you’ve studied Spanish through a Latin American teacher or textbook like me, you’re most likely not familiar with the Spanish slang words used everyday in Spain. Below is a list of eight slang words/phrases that will help your communication with the locals!
1. Tío/a
Literal Meaning: Uncle/Aunt
Slang Meaning: Friend, guy/girl, pal
At first, some may wonder why so many Spaniards are always talking about their Aunts or Uncles. However, in most cases, they are actually talking about a friend or even a stranger.
2. Vale
Literal Meaning: It is worth it
Slang Meaning: Okay or yes
Vale is one of the most common words used in casual conversation. Sometimes, my teachers will ask “vale?” as in “do you understand/are you all good?”
3. Guay
Slang Meaning: Cool
Words like “chévere” and “chido” are commonly used for “cool” in Latin American countries. If you want to express that something is cool in Spain…use “guay”!
“Qué guay” = “How cool”
4. Pasta
Literal Meaning: Pasta
Slang Meaning: Money
The word “pasta” is often used by children in placement of “dinero.” It is similar to saying “dough” for “money” in English.
5. Me importa un pimiento
Literal Meaning: It is as important as a pepper
Slang Meaning: I do not care
“Me importa un pimiento la locación” = “I don’t care about the location”
6. Buenas
Literal Meaning: Good
Slang Meaning: Hello
Most have learned “hola” as a way to greet someone. However, if you want to sound like a real native say “buenas”!
7. No pasa nada
Literal Meaning: Nothing happens
Slang Meaning: Don’t worry about it/It’s all good
I forgot a specific Spanish grammatical rule and my teacher responded “no pasa nada” to indicate not to worry.
8. La Marcha
Literal Meaning: The march
Slang Meaning: Nightlife
La Marcha means the Spanish nightlife however, it also includes the zest and excitement the Spaniards have for staying up late with friends.
Qué guay! Now you are ready to hit the streets and impress some locals by using your new and improved Spanish slang vocabulary.