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Argentina may be a Spanish speaking country, but it has a lot of its own personal slang words. Here at Elebaires we like to make sure our students are prepared for their time in Argentina, so here is a list of some of the most commonly used slang words and phrases in Buenos Aires!
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‘Dale’ is a very commonly used word here in Argentina. Like the Spanish word ‘vale’, it basically means ‘OK’. It is often used to agree with someone, and is a good word to use if you want to show someone that you’ve understood something.
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‘Che’ can be used in many different circ*mstances, and is used all the time by porteños. It means both ‘hey’ and ‘mate’. Use it to try and get someone’s attention, or as a simple term of endearment for a friend. It is also quite handy when you can’t remember someone’s name – just call them Che! In fact the famous Argentine Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara was given the nickname Che because he used the word some much!
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When you walk down the street in Buenos Aires, you are bound to come across the word ‘boludo’. It loosely translates as ‘idiot’ and can be used as both an insult and as a term of great affection. During an argument it can be said in a spiteful way; but it is also how you would address a pal. For example: “Che, boludo, tanto tiempo!” Chuck it in mid sentence when talking with a friend and you will instantly sound very porteño.
But make sure you save the word ‘boludo’ for just your close friends. To anyone else it could be perceived as an insult, so watch out!
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‘Ni a palos’ literally means ‘not even if beaten with a stick’, but is used in Argentina to mean ‘no way!’ It can be used in all types of circ*mstances, and is a great local phrase to have under your belt.
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‘Quilombo’ is the Argentine word for ‘mess’. For example, ‘qué quilombo!’ is used very frequently and translates as ‘what a mess!’ Similarly to boludo, it is best to save this word for the company of friends, but nevertheless it can come in very handy.
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‘Onda’ is a very useful word for when you are in Argentina. Meaning either ‘waves’ or ‘vibes’, is it used constantly to describe what you think of someone or something. “¿Qué onda?” – what’s it like? Or “Ella es muy buena onda” – she’s a cool girl (good vibes). ‘Buena onda’ is used all the time by locals, and describes everything from people, to restaurants and bar.
“Mala onda” is also used to describe someone who is uncool, or has ‘bad vibes’.
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‘Mira vos’ is a phrase that literally translates as ‘look at you’. Argentine’s use it to show an expression of surprise. For example when someone unexpectedly does something correct or impressive, you would use it to show that you’re impressed.
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It would take months to learn all of the slang words used in Argentina, but these are definitely the most widely used ones. Now you are prepared to come to Argentina and sound like a local! Mira vos!
