The best Mexican slang terms to sound like a local - A Complete Guide

When visiting Spanish-speaking countries, one of the best ways to sound like a local is to use Spanish slang terms. Having local knowledge also allows you to make friends easily and communicate with locals. This is the main reason why we are here to tell you about the best Mexican slang terms that you can use not only in Mexico, but also in other Spanish-speaking countries. 

Exploring the top Mexican slang terms that you need to know!

Although there are a number of slang words and phrases being used by natives, it is not necessary for you to remember or know all these slang terms. Take a look at the most famous and common Mexican slang terms that we are mentioning here to communicate and understand the natives efficiently. 

1. Güey

This is one of the most famous Mexican slang terms used by people. The term is similar to ‘dude’ in English and is used by people when referring to friends and acquaintances. In certain unpleasant situations, the term also refers to strangers in a sarcastic way. The term is pronounced like ‘whey’ in English. 

2. Neta 

Neta is another word that you will hear in different movies, TV shows, and even from your Mexican friends. The term basically means ‘the truth’ or ‘for real’. It can also be used interrogatively or as an exclamation. 

3. No manches 

No manches! (Really? or Are you kidding?) is a phrase that you would say when a friend shares with you a fantastic event or something you are not sure of its existence. You can as well say ¡No mames! which is another term for the same thing, although it is a bit more colorful (like damn!).

4. ¡Órale!

This term has multiple meanings: to show astonishment, to give approval, to express enthusiasm, and even to support orders.

5. ¡Aguas!

Despite its oddity, the expression has nothing to do with being wet. It means the opposite of being dazed and losing your sense of the environment.

6. Pinche 

Usually used as an adjective to describe something that is ugly, terrible, or of poor quality. It can also function as a curse word to intensify an insult and its features (the same way "fucking" is used in English).

7. Chido 

To illustrate this with an example, Mexicans usually apply the term "chido" to anything that is cool or gives off nice vibes. It can be said about people, things, or events.

8. No hay bronca 

Let's begin with the term “bronca,” which is often used to describe the situation of having a problem or an irritation. Therefore, you can imagine that “no hay bronca” is equivalent to saying there is no problem – everything is alright.

9. Chavo or Chava 

These are the words most often used to talk about the young ones: children, teens, young people in general. They are quite similar to calling someone "kid" in English.

10. Naco 

The word naco is a Mexican slang used to describe a person whose attitude is unrefined, tawdry, and who is not considered part of the regular society. Most of the time, a naco behaves unpleasantly, has poor education, and employs certain colorful slang. It is very close in meaning to "ghetto" in English.