Guys, are you planning a trip to Medellin, Colombia? If so, please it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local slang to truly immerse in the vibrant culture of my city. In this article, I will unlock 25 unique words and phrases that will help you navigate Medellin like a local Paisa. ( like myself)
Medellin slang, also known as “Paisa Español,” has its roots in the Antioquia region and reflects the city’s rich history and unique identity. From casual greetings to colourful expressions, mastering these slang terms will provide you with a deeper understanding of the locals and enhance your overall experience. I went to Greenwich English School in 2008, in London and guys you all know you do not receive those teachings there, which makes the settle-in process hard sometimes because you simply do not understand street conversations or regular conversations in informal settings. So guys, hope you all enjoy and learn the basics of Medellin slang, ( Spanish translation: ” Palabras Callejeras.” that helps you have a good time in my lover city.
Whether you’re looking to visit the local markets, order street food without any problem, or simply hold a conversation with a friendly Colombiano, this guide will give you the confidence to communicate effortlessly.
So, guys get ready to immerse yourself in Medellin’s vibrant atmosphere and dive into the local jargon. My goal with this article is to equip you to enjoy the city like a true Paisa.
Let’s get started on this linguistic adventure together!
Medellin slang, also known as “Paisa Español,” has its roots in the Antioquia region and reflects the city’s rich history and unique identity. From casual greetings to colourful expressions, mastering these slang terms will provide you with a deeper understanding of the locals and enhance your overall experience.
Whether you’re looking to haggle at the local markets, order street food without a hitch, or simply strike up a conversation with a friendly Colombiano, this guide will give you the confidence to communicate effortlessly. So, get ready to immerse yourself in Medellin’s vibrant atmosphere and dive into the local jargon. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the city like a true Paisa.
Let’s get started on this linguistic adventure!
The Importance of Learning Medellin slang
Medellin is a city that prides itself on its unique culture and strong sense of identity. As a traveller, learning the local slang is not only a fun and engaging way to connect with the locals but also a sign of respect for their customs and way of life, guys you can not imagine how amazing is for us to hear when someone that comes from abroad speaks our slang, we all love it.!!. By using Medellin slang, you show that you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, and it opens up opportunities for more meaningful interactions.
Learning the slang also helps you navigate the city more effectively. While many people in Medellin do speak English, ( just to give you guys some data, when we go to school or University we need to take English classes otherwise we won’t be able to get the undergraduate certificate, as simple as that. it is mandatory). So being able to understand and use the local slang will make it easier for you to communicate, especially in more casual and informal situations. It allows you to blend in seamlessly and feel like a true local.
1. Chimba
Let’s begin with a word that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Medellin – “chimba.” This versatile term can be used to describe something as fantastic, cool, or amazing. When you see the breathtaking views from the top of El Peñol or taste the delicious local cuisine, you’ll understand why Medellin is truly “una chimba.” This word got famous internationally by our local Paisa singers such as Karol G, Maluma, G Valbin and Juanes. however, I will give you all one advice, make sure to use this word just in informal scenarios, with close friends, and do not use it to describe the food if you are in a restaurant for example.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
2. Parcero/Parcera
I grew up saying all the time this word so If you want to address a friend or buddy in Medellin, you can use the term “parcero” for males or “parcera” for females. It’s a casual and friendly way to refer to someone, similar to “dude” or “buddy” in English. again just for informal scenarios, I do not want you to use it in a job interview or to a police officer unless you want to get in trouble. lol.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
3. ¿Quiubo?
When you want to greet someone in Medellin, instead of the standard “¿Cómo estás?” you can use the local slang “¿Quiubo?” It’s a shortened version of “¿Qué hubo?” however, I would say this is not a very common word today that I use and for that, I will suggest sticking to the common one which is, Hola, Como estas? the used is for friends and acquaintances and for in general. This word is the name of local newspaper guys which for me ranks 10 out of 10 in 5 points.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 40% to 50% guys.
4. Bacano/Bacana
In Medellin, if something is “bacano” or “bacana,” it means it’s cool, nice, or enjoyable. This word is frequently used for me to express approval or excitement. So, if you have a great time at a local salsa club or enjoy a delicious Colombian coffee, you can say, “¡Qué bacano!”
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
5. Jartera
When you’ve had enough of something or someone is annoying you, you can use the word “jartera.” It’s a way to express frustration or boredom. For example, if you’re tired of waiting in line or if someone keeps talking non-stop, you can say, “¡Qué jartera!”,
Use this word in a percentage rate, 40% to 50% guys.
6. Chévere
“Chévere” is my favorite guys, is another word commonly used in Medellin to describe something as great, cool, or awesome. It’s a versatile term that can be used to express admiration or satisfaction. So, if you’re impressed by the city’s architecture or the warm hospitality of the locals, you can say, “¡Qué chévere!” I will add you can use it in formal jobs interviews guys. ” Medellin es super chevere” ” La gente es super chevere”, ” The interview estuvo muy chevere.”
Use of this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
7. Pelado/Pelada
If you hear someone referring to another person as “pelado” or “pelada,” don’t worry, it’s not an insult. In Medellin, it’s a colloquial way to refer to a young person, similar to “kid” or “youngster” in English. It’s a term used affectionately and without any negative connotation.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
8. Parche
When you want to hang out with friends or join a group activity, you can use the word “parche.” It refers to a group of people getting together for socializing, having fun, or simply chilling. So, if you’re invited to join a group of locals for a night out, you can say, “¡Claro, me uno al parche!”
Use this word in a percentage rate, 50% to 60% guys.
9. Camello
In Medellin, ” Camello” is a word used to refer to work or a job. So, if you’re discussing your occupation with a local, you can say, “Estoy buscando camello” meaning “I’m looking for a job.” It’s a casual term commonly used in everyday conversations. If you guys use this word locals will look at you for something that sounds cool or cute, but this word is more used for very, very informal scenarios like when you are with your “parceros.” I rarely use this word guys. I just say like the regular way, ” Estoy buscando trabajo.” that is it.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 50% to 60% guys.
10. Parchar
Building on the previous word, “parchar” is a verb derived from “parche” and means to hang out or spend time with friends. It’s a popular activity among Paisas, and you’ll often hear locals saying, “Vamos a parchar” when they want to meet up and have a good time.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 50% to 60% guys.
11. Guayabo
If you wake up feeling a little rough after a night of partying in Provenza, las Palmas or la 33, you can blame it on the “guayabo.” This word refers to a hangover and is commonly used in Medellin. So, if you’re not feeling your best in the morning, you can say, “Tengo un guayabo tremendo.” I used to say this word a lot, in my 20s and 30s guys, especially when I was at Uni but I quit liquor 90% guys, I just keep sticking to two or three beers and one or two glasses of wine every now and then. I am now focused on things that bring real value to my life, ( business, projects like Medellinparce.com).
Use of this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
12. Paila
In Medellin, “paila” is a word used to express disappointment or frustration. It’s similar to saying “bummer” or “oh no” in English. So, if something doesn’t go as planned or if you’re faced with an unfortunate situation, you can say, “¡Qué paila!”
Use of this word in a percentage rate, 50% to 60% guys.
13. Cucha
“Cucha” is a word used in Medellin to refer to mum. It’s a more informal term compared to “Madre” So, if a local invites you to a Madre place, they might say, “Ven a la casa de mi cucha” meaning “Come to my mother’s house.”, By the way, guys, they are the ones who really cook the most tasted and flavoured food in the world, I miss that part when I am away from Colombia.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 70% to 80% guys.
14. Chino/China
If someone refers to you as “chino” or “china” in Medellin, don’t be confused. It’s a term used to refer to a friend or someone you’re close to. It’s similar to saying “buddy” or “pal” in English. So, if a local calls you “chino,” it’s a sign of familiarity and friendship.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 40% to 50% guys.
15. Mijo/Mija
“Mijo” or “mija” is a term used in Medellin to address someone affectionately. It’s a combination of “mi” (my) and “hijo” (son) or “hija” (daughter). It’s a way to show warmth and care towards another person, even if they’re not your actual child. You can come across somebody greeting you like, Como estas mijo (a)?
Use this word in a percentage rate, 80% to 90% guys.
16. Desparchado/Desparchada
In Medellin, if someone is “desparchado” or “desparchada,” it means they’re bored or have nothing to do. It’s a term used to describe someone who is not engaged in any activities or is simply feeling restless. So, if you’re looking for something to do, you can say, “Estoy desparchado, ¿qué hacemos?”
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
17. Rumbiar
When you want to go out and party in Medellin, you can use the verb “rumbiar.” It means to go out and have a good time, usually involving dancing, music, and drinks. So, if you’re in the mood to hit the clubs and dance the night away, you can say, “Vamos a rumbiar.”
Use of this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
18. Sapo
In Medellin, “sapo” is a word used to describe someone who is a snitch or informer. It’s a term used to refer to someone who reveals secrets or shares confidential information. It is a rude word, mostly used to make somebody get upset or mad at you. So, if someone can’t keep a secret, you can say, “No le cuentes nada, es un sapo.” I think you find this word commonly used in the series, Like Nacors, El patron del Mal, ( By the way I recommend the last series if you want to get real insights into the Medellin in the 90s guys, I want to make it clear guys I am not a fan of Pablo Escobar Legacy.). I rarely used this word guys.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 80% to 90% guys.
19. Parchado/Parchada
If someone is “parchado” or “parchada” in Medellin, it means they’re having a good time. It’s a term used to describe someone who has been having a good time doing something. So, if you’ve had a good day partying or engaging in activities, you can say, “Estoy parchado en un rumba, (party) or estuve, I was…” I used this word very often as a real local paisa, mostly in informal scenarios guys.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
20. Tacano
“Chirrete” is a word used in Medellin to describe someone who is stingy or tight-fisted. It’s a term used to refer to someone who doesn’t like to spend money or is reluctant to share. So, if you come across someone who is being overly frugal, you can say, “Es muy tacano.”
hope you guys if you are dating someone or dated did not go through this bad experience, I do my best to be known as generous, the opposite words for this, ” Amplio”, ” El es muy amplio”, ” Ella es muy amplia”.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
21. Pintoso/Pintosa
If someone is “pintoso” or “pintosa” in Medellin, it means they’re good-looking. It’s a term used to describe someone who has a good sense of fashion or looks good, someone who is attractive. So, if you receive a compliment on your appearance, you can say, “Muchas gracias.”
Use this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
22. Desuso
In Medellin, if something is ” desuso,” it means it’s broken or not working properly. It’s a term used to describe something that is in a state of disrepair. So, if you come across a malfunctioning device or a faulty item, you can say, “Está en desuso.”
Use this word in a percentage rate, 50% to 60% guys.
23. Meti las patas
“La cage” is a word used in Medellin to refer to a big mistake or blunder. It’s similar to saying “big goof” or “major mess-up” in English. So, if you make a significant error or do something embarrassing, you can say, “¡Meti las patas ”
Use of this word in a percentage rate, 90% to 100% guys.
24. Ñero/Ñera
If someone is referred to as “ñero” or “ñera” in Medellin, it means they’re a troublemaker or involved in illicit activities. It’s a term used to describe someone who is involved in the underworld or has a rebellious nature. It’s important to note that this term can carry negative connotations, so use it with caution.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 60% to 70% guys.
25. Parce
Lastly, I listed it twice”parce” The word that I used to name my website Medellinparce.com is a word commonly used in Medellin to refer to a friend or buddy. It’s a more casual and friendly way to address someone, similar to “mate” or “bro” in English. So, if you want to address someone informally, you can say, “¿Qué más, parce?” or “parcero (a)”.
Use this word in a percentage rate, 100% guys.
Conclusion
Now, guys that you’re armed with these 25 unique words and phrases, you’ll be able to navigate Medellin like a local paisa. Whether you’re bargaining at the markets, ordering street food, or simply striking up a conversation with a friendly Paisa, incorporating these slang terms into your vocabulary will enhance your overall experience and help you connect with the vibrant culture of Medellin. So, get out there and embrace the local jargon –
Medellin is waiting to be discovered parceros!
Let me know guys your comments, and feel free to shoot out an email.
See you soon with more insights chicos.
