The basic guide for expats. Speak like a local and use Mexicanisms!

In this article, we'll take you on a fun and educational journey, exploring some of the most commonly used Mexican slang terms that will help you blend in like a true local. From colloquial expressions to everyday words with a Mexican twist, get ready to laugh, learn, and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Mexican Spanish. Let's begin this adventure together!

Hello, expat friends! Whether you're living in Mexico or planning a visit, get ready for a linguistic journey full of fun and surprises. At Spoken Learning, we're here to help you uncover the secrets of Mexican Spanish and dive into the vibrant culture of this beautiful country!

To start off, let me introduce you to some "mexicanismos," those unique expressions and words that make Mexican Spanish so special. So, grab your charro hat and maraca, and let's dive into the world of Spanish with a Mexican flair!

1. ¡Órale! When you hear someone say "¡Órale!", don't worry, they're not telling you to run somewhere. On the contrary! This expression is a cheer or exclamation, kind of like "let's go!" or "wow!" in English. Use it to show your enthusiasm and adaptation to Mexican culture.

2. ¿Qué onda? Literally, "¿qué onda?" means "what's up?", but in Mexico, it's an informal and friendly way to greet someone and ask how they're doing. So the next time you run into your Mexican neighbors, don't hesitate to drop a "¿qué onda?" and watch the doors of friendship open up!

3. Chido/a Is something "chido"? That's excellent! This word is used to describe something cool, amazing, or just fantastic. From food to music, everything can be chido in Mexico!

4. Chamba If you're looking for work in Mexico and hear someone mention "chamba", don't worry! They're not talking about a jungle monkey but a job or employment. So get to work and find your ideal chamba!

5. ¿A poco? Someone tells you an incredible story and you can't believe it? Well, in Mexico, "¿a poco?" is your response. It's like saying "Really?" or "Seriously?" in English. Show your disbelief with Mexican style!

6. ¿Qué pedo? Yes, I know, it sounds strange, but don't worry, we're not talking about flatulence. "¿Qué pedo?" is an informal way to ask "what's up?" or "what's going on?" in Mexico. Use it with close friends or in casual situations to show off your grasp of Mexican Spanish.

7. Fresa If someone calls you "fresa" in Mexico, don't worry, they're not comparing you to a fruit. They're saying you're a bit "posh" or "snobby," meaning you have refined tastes or belong to a higher social class. So stop being so fresa and join in the Mexican fun!