Essential Colombian slang to know before traveling to Colombia

Once you arrive in Colombia, you usually start hearing a whole different side to the Spanish language. Understanding the ways locals talk will help immerse yourself in the local culture, understand everyday conversations more easily, express yourself in a way that locals will understand, and avoid confusions. Commonly heard phrases across Colombia will likely not be in the textbooks you used to learn Spanish. Here is a list of essential Colombian slang you need to know before arriving in Colombia, which can significantly enhance your experience interning abroad:

To say that something is great, awesome or cool.

• Chévere

The most widely used word for "cool" or "nice".

You can use it with anyone, from a friend, taxi driver to your co-workers.

• Bacano

Very similar to chévere, meaning "cool" or "good".

It is friendly and widely used across the country, but less so among young people.

• Chimba

Easily the most popular & the most informal word for "awesome" or "the best".

While originating from Medellín's youth culture, it is used across the country today. However, in more formal settings it might be seen as slightly inappropiate, but as a foreigner in Colombia you can probably get away with it.

Greetings & Friendships

• Parce / Parcero

The ultimate Colombian word for "bro," "dude," or "mate".

It is the classic way to address a friend, especially in Medellín.

• ¿Qué más?

Simply means "What's up?" or "How's it going?".

It is the most common casual greeting you will hear, similar to "cómo estás" but much more casual and informal.

Everyday Expressions

• ¡De una!

Simply means "Absolutely!" or "Let's do it!".

It signals immediate agreement, confirmation or enthusiasm for a plan, invitation or proposal.

• Listo

The literal meaning is "ready", but Colombians use it constantly to say "Okay" or "Understood".

It is the ultimate confirmation word.

• Tranqui

Short for tranquilo/a, meaning "Don't worry," "chill," or "take it easy".

It is used to reassure someone, very much like "no worries" or "no problem" in English.

• Qué pena

The standard, polite Colombian way to say "Excuse me" or "I'm sorry".

You will hear it if someone accidentally bumps into you, needs to pass by you, or before asking a direct question.

• Tinto

In Colombia, tinto does not mean red wine, but coffee. Probably the most important Colombian slang word of all.

You will be offered a "tinto" or "tintico" every day at your internship. It is black filtered coffee and it is a staple of daily life across Colombia.

Traffic Talk

• Trancón

It means traffic jam. Its mostly used in Bogotá & nationally (aside from Medellín).

• Taco

Also means traffic jam. It is definitely the preferred term in Medellín and the Antioquia region.

How to learn & use Colombia Slang Effectively

1) Listen and Learn

Pay attention to how locals use unknown phrases in conversations. This real-life context will help you understand when to use them properly.

2) Practice Regularly

Try to incorporate Colombian slang into your daily conversations and see how the locals react. More often than not, they will be more than happy to correct you if you use it in the wrong context, making it even more easy to learn & understand. The more you practice, the more natural they will feel.

3) Keep an open mind & don't lose confidence

Locals in Colombia really appreciate it when foreigners attempt to speak Spanish. If you can try and use local slang, they will appreciate it even more. Even if you make mistakes, it is important to not lose your confidence and to keep trying - it will definitely be worth it!

If you would like to know more about life in Colombia or how to apply for an internship in Colombia, please contact a member of our team or complete our application form.

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This blog post was written & published by Intern Colombia