{"id":3748,"date":"2025-12-26T17:51:36","date_gmt":"2025-12-26T17:51:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/?p=868"},"modified":"2025-12-29T17:35:28","modified_gmt":"2025-12-29T17:35:28","slug":"a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/","title":{"rendered":"Peruvian Slang 101: 50+ Words You\u2019ll Hear in Lima (and Beyond)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peru is one of those places where Spanish steps into the street and instantly feels different. In taxis, markets, cevicher\u00edas and WhatsApp chats, you will hear a warm, playful language called <strong>jerga<\/strong>, also known as Peruvian slang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide is designed to help you find the right word in seconds when you visit Peru. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For polite basics and first phrases, see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/how-to-say-hello-and-goodbye-in-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peruvian greetings guide<\/a>. To connect slang with daily life, pair this with our Peru traditions &amp; culture guide and our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/how-to-spend-a-day-in-miraflores-lima\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lima<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/reasons-to-visit-cusco\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cusco<\/a> city guides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-border-color has-background is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-7387b849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-color:#8b6038;border-width:1px;border-top-left-radius:20px;border-top-right-radius:20px;border-bottom-left-radius:20px;border-bottom-right-radius:20px;background-color:#8c613826;box-shadow:var(--wp--preset--shadow--natural)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-a51beaa11f28d978ae47d85f8370134d\" style=\"color:#8b6038\"><strong>Key Takeaways: <strong><strong>What Should You Know About Peruvian Slang?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Peruvian slang is the everyday, informal Spanish used in Peru. They&#8217;re playful words and expressions you&#8217;ll hear with friends, in taxis, at markets and online.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Knowing Peruvian slang will help you understand jokes, song lyrics and casual conversations. You don\u2019t need to <em>speak<\/em> slang perfectly, but recognizing it adds a layer of connection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Peruvian slang is safe for visitors to use if they stick to friendly, light expressions and avoid words they don\u2019t fully understand. Use slang with peers and guides, not in formal settings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Peruvian Spanish is different from other spanish. The accent is clear and soft, and you\u2019ll hear many words that are uniquely Peruvian or used differently than in Spain or Mexico.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You will hear the most slang in Lima and other cities, on public transport, in markets, among younger people, and in music, TV, and social media.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Peruvian Slang and How Is It Different from Classroom Spanish?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"616\" src=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slangs-1-1024x616.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6101\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slangs-1-1024x616.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slangs-1-300x181.png 300w, https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slangs-1-768x462.png 768w, https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slangs-1.png 1485w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peruvian slang, or <strong>jerga peruana<\/strong>, is the informal layer that sits on top of standard Spanish. It uses English borrowings, Indigenous words, local humour and regional references to colour everyday speech.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a Spanish class, you might learn <strong>\u201camigo\u201d<\/strong> for friend and <strong>\u201ccasa\u201d<\/strong> for house. On the street in Lima, you\u2019ll often hear <strong>\u201ccausa\u201d<\/strong> or <strong>\u201cpata\u201d<\/strong> for friend and <strong>\u201cjato\u201d<\/strong> for house instead. None of this is \u201cwrong\u201d; it\u2019s simply how people speak when they are relaxed and at ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For travelers, the goal is not to become fully fluent in jerga but to understand what you\u2019re hearing and to sprinkle in a few friendly words. That alone can transform a transaction into a conversation and a conversation into a story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are the Most Common Peruvian Slang Words for Friends and People?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the words you\u2019ll hear between friends, in caf\u00e9s, on tours and in casual chat. They&#8217;re safe, warm and very Peruvian.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Friends, people &amp; feelings (jerga de amigos)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-background has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#607d780f\"><thead><tr><th>Slang word\/phrase<\/th><th>Meaning (plain English)<\/th><th>Example in use<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>pata<\/strong><\/td><td>Friend \/ buddy<\/td><td><em>\u00c9l es mi pata del trabajo.<\/em> \u2013 He\u2019s my work friend.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>pata del alma<\/strong><\/td><td>Best friend (very close)<\/td><td><em>Ella es mi pata del alma.<\/em> \u2013 She\u2019s my best friend.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>causa<\/strong><\/td><td>Close friend \/ mate (Lima)<\/td><td><em>Oye, causa, \u00bfc\u00f3mo est\u00e1s?<\/em> \u2013 Hey mate, how are you?<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>flaco \/ flaca<\/strong><\/td><td>Boyfriend \/ girlfriend \/ partner<\/td><td><em>Voy con mi flaca.<\/em> \u2013 I\u2019m going with my girlfriend.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>pulp\u00edn<\/strong><\/td><td>Young kid \/ newbie<\/td><td><em>Es medio pulp\u00edn todav\u00eda.<\/em> \u2013 He\u2019s still a bit of a newbie.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>paja<\/strong><\/td><td>Cool \/ great \/ awesome<\/td><td><em>El tour estuvo paja.<\/em> \u2013 The tour was great.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>bac\u00e1n<\/strong><\/td><td>Cool \/ excellent<\/td><td><em>Tu hotel est\u00e1 bac\u00e1n.<\/em> \u2013 Your hotel is really nice.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>ch\u00e9vere<\/strong><\/td><td>Cool \/ awesome (same as bac\u00e1n)<\/td><td><em>La vista es ch\u00e9vere.<\/em> \u2013 The view is awesome.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u00a1Asu!<\/strong><\/td><td>Wow! \/ No way!<\/td><td><em>\u00a1Asu, qu\u00e9 vista de Machu Picchu!<\/em> \u2013 Wow, what a view of Machu Picchu!<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u00a1Qu\u00e9 roche!<\/strong><\/td><td>How embarrassing! \/ What a shame<\/td><td><em>Me ca\u00ed en la calle, \u00a1qu\u00e9 roche!<\/em> \u2013 I fell in the street, how embarrassing.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>palta<\/strong><\/td><td>Embarrassment \/ awkwardness<\/td><td><em>Me da palta hablar en p\u00fablico.<\/em> \u2013 Speaking in public makes me feel awkward.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>tranqui<\/strong><\/td><td>Chill \/ relaxed<\/td><td><em>Hoy ser\u00e1 un d\u00eda tranqui.<\/em> \u2013 Today will be a relaxed day.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>conchudo<\/strong> (careful)<\/td><td>Shameless \/ cheeky person<\/td><td>Better understood than used; can sound rude if misused.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These terms are friendly and mostly safe to use with people you know or with guides who are already speaking informally with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Food and Drink Slang Will You Hear Around the Table?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Peru, food is a national passion and of course, it comes with its own slang. This is useful in markets, bars and street food stalls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Food &amp; drink (jerga de comida)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-background has-border-color has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#607d780f;border-color:#5f7c77;border-width:1px\"><thead><tr><th>Slang word \/ phrase<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><th>Example in use<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>chela<\/strong><\/td><td>Beer<\/td><td><em>\u00bfTomamos unas chelas en Barranco?<\/em> \u2013 Shall we have some beers in Barranco?<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>jamear<\/strong><\/td><td>To eat<\/td><td><em>Vamos a jamear algo cerca del hotel.<\/em> \u2013 Let\u2019s eat something near the hotel.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>yapa<\/strong><\/td><td>Little extra \/ free extra<\/td><td><em>\u00bfMe das la yapa?<\/em> \u2013 Will you give me a little extra (e.g. extra fruit at market)?<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>chifa<\/strong><\/td><td>Chinese-Peruvian restaurant<\/td><td><em>Esta noche vamos a un chifa.<\/em> \u2013 Tonight we\u2019re going to a Chinese-Peruvian spot.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>piqueo<\/strong><\/td><td>Shared snacks \/ nibbles<\/td><td><em>Pedimos un piqueo para todos.<\/em> \u2013 Let\u2019s order something for everyone to share.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>lonche<\/strong><\/td><td>Afternoon tea \/ light supper<\/td><td><em>Ma\u00f1ana te invito a lonche.<\/em> \u2013 Tomorrow I\u2019ll take you out for tea \/ light meal.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>leche de tigre<\/strong><\/td><td>Ceviche marinade \u201ctiger\u2019s milk\u201d<\/td><td><em>Me tomo mi leche de tigre y sigo.<\/em> \u2013 I\u2019ll drink my ceviche juice and carry on.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>anticuchos<\/strong><\/td><td>Grilled skewers (often beef heart)<\/td><td><em>Probemos anticuchos en Miraflores.<\/em> \u2013 Let\u2019s try skewers in Miraflores.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>antojito<\/strong><\/td><td>Craving \/ little treat<\/td><td><em>Tengo antojo de algo dulce.<\/em> \u2013 I\u2019m craving something sweet.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Slang Do Peruvians Use for Work, Time, Money and Daily Life?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These words float through daily conversation, in offices, homes and on the street. You\u2019ll hear them everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Work, time &amp; everyday life<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-background has-border-color has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#607d780f;border-color:#5f7c77;border-width:1px\"><thead><tr><th>Slang word \/ phrase<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><th>Example in use<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>chamba<\/strong><\/td><td>Work \/ job<\/td><td><em>Tengo mucha chamba hoy.<\/em> \u2013 I have a lot of work today.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>la chamba es chamba<\/strong><\/td><td>Work is work (it has to be done)<\/td><td><em>No me encanta, pero la chamba es chamba.<\/em> \u2013 I don\u2019t love it, but work is work.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>al toque<\/strong><\/td><td>Right away \/ in a bit<\/td><td><em>Te mando el correo al toque.<\/em> \u2013 I\u2019ll send the email right away (or soon-ish).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>ahorita<\/strong><\/td><td>Right now\u2026 or soon<\/td><td>Often softer than \u201cnow\u201d; can mean in a few minutes.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>ya fuiste<\/strong><\/td><td>You missed it \/ it\u2019s over<\/td><td><em>El concierto ya fuiste.<\/em> \u2013 You missed the concert.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>habla<\/strong><\/td><td>Hey \/ what\u2019s up (between friends)<\/td><td><em>Habla, Jaime, \u00bfqu\u00e9 tal?<\/em> \u2013 Hey Jaime, how\u2019s it going?<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>jato<\/strong><\/td><td>House \/ apartment<\/td><td><em>Nos vemos en mi jato.<\/em> \u2013 See you at my place.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>soroche<\/strong><\/td><td>Altitude sickness<\/td><td><em>Si subes a Cusco, cuidado con el soroche.<\/em> \u2013 Be careful with altitude sickness.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>paseo<\/strong><\/td><td>Outing \/ stroll<\/td><td><em>Ma\u00f1ana hacemos un paseo por el centro.<\/em> \u2013 Tomorrow we\u2019ll take a walk downtown.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Money &amp; prices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-background has-border-color has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#607d780f;border-color:#5f7c77;border-width:1px\"><thead><tr><th>Slang word \/ phrase<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><th>Example in use<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>luca<\/strong><\/td><td>One sol (informal)<\/td><td><em>Cuesta diez lucas.<\/em> \u2013 It costs ten soles.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>china<\/strong><\/td><td>Fifty-cent coin<\/td><td><em>\u00bfTienes una china?<\/em> \u2013 Do you have fifty cents?<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>plata<\/strong><\/td><td>Money (generic)<\/td><td><em>No tengo mucha plata hoy.<\/em> \u2013 I don\u2019t have much money today.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>est\u00e1 caro<\/strong><\/td><td>It\u2019s expensive<\/td><td><em>Ese taxi est\u00e1 caro.<\/em> \u2013 That taxi is expensive.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>est\u00e1 barato<\/strong><\/td><td>It\u2019s cheap<\/td><td><em>Ese men\u00fa est\u00e1 barato.<\/em> \u2013 That lunch menu is cheap.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recognising these words helps when you\u2019re shopping, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-guide-to-peruvian-tipping-culture\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tipping<\/a> or checking costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Slang Will You Hear in Taxis, Buses and Around Town?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Transport slang is short, fast, and very common. It\u2019s useful even if you only listen and don\u2019t use it yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Taxis, traffic &amp; getting around<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-background has-border-color has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#607d780f;border-color:#5f7c77;border-width:1px\"><thead><tr><th>Slang word \/ phrase<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><th>Example in use<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>taxi informal<\/strong><\/td><td>Unofficial taxi<\/td><td>Ask your hotel to book taxis instead of hailing them as visitors.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>combi<\/strong><\/td><td>Small minibus \/ shared van<\/td><td><em>La combi va llena.<\/em> \u2013 The minibus is full.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>micro<\/strong><\/td><td>City bus<\/td><td><em>Tomamos la micro al centro.<\/em> \u2013 Let\u2019s take the bus to downtown.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>jalador<\/strong><\/td><td>Hawker who calls people in<\/td><td><em>Un jalador nos invit\u00f3 al restaurante.<\/em> \u2013 A hawker invited us into the restaurant.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>tombo<\/strong><\/td><td>Police officer (informal)<\/td><td><em>Ah\u00ed hay tombos.<\/em> \u2013 There are police over there.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>grifo<\/strong><\/td><td>Gas station<\/td><td><em>Paramos en el grifo un momento.<\/em> \u2013 We\u2019ll stop at the gas station for a moment.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are good to <strong>understand<\/strong>, but you don\u2019t need to copy everything you hear. As a visitor, it is still best to use standard Spanish when arranging transport or let your hotel or guide handle logistics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Does Peruvian Slang Change Across Regions, Music and Social Media?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Peru is diverse, and slang reflects that diversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does slang vary by region?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lima (coast):<\/strong> Words like <strong>causa<\/strong> (friend), <strong>jalador<\/strong> (person pulling you into a shop), and many English borrowings are common.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cusco and the Andes:<\/strong> You may hear words influenced by <strong>Quechua<\/strong>, and local slang such as <strong>chanc\u00f3n<\/strong> (a flatterer or suck-up) instead of <strong>jalador<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>North &amp; South coasts:<\/strong> Beach regions have their own expressions, especially around surfing, nightlife, and summer culture.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if you don&#8217;t memorise each variation, knowing that <strong>not all slang is national<\/strong> helps you understand why the same idea can have different words in Lima and Cusco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How is slang used online and in texts?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In messaging and social media, Peruvians shorten and play with words:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-background has-border-color has-fixed-layout\" style=\"background-color:#607d780f;border-color:#5f7c77;border-width:1px\"><thead><tr><th>Slang \/ abbreviation<\/th><th>Meaning<\/th><th>Example in use<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>PQ<\/strong><\/td><td>Por qu\u00e9 \u2013 \u201cwhy\u201d<\/td><td><em>\u00bfPQ no viniste?<\/em> \u2013 Why didn\u2019t you come?<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>D1 \/ De uno<\/strong><\/td><td>Of course \/ right away<\/td><td><em>\u00bfVamos? D1.<\/em> \u2013 Shall we go? Of course.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>xfa \/ xfis<\/strong><\/td><td>Por favor \u2013 \u201cplease\u201d<\/td><td><em>M\u00e1ndame la foto, xfa.<\/em> \u2013 Send me the photo, please.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>tqm \/ tkm<\/strong><\/td><td>Te quiero mucho \u2013 \u201clove you lots\u201d<\/td><td>Used between close friends or family.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Emojis &amp; stickers<\/td><td>Express tone and humour<\/td><td>Expect lots of laughing, heart and thumbs-up emojis.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following a few Peruvian accounts or musicians on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube is a fun way to hear this in action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is Peruvian Slang Rude and How Can You Use It Safely as a Tourist?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"616\" src=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slang-1024x616.png\" alt=\"Peruvian slang\" class=\"wp-image-6103\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slang-1024x616.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slang-300x181.png 300w, https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slang-768x462.png 768w, https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Peruvian-Slang.png 1485w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Slang ranges from <strong>gentle and friendly<\/strong> to <strong>sharp and vulgar<\/strong> in every language. The good news is that most words in this guide are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Widely understood<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Safe in informal contexts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Often used by your guides, drivers, and the younger people around you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A few tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>light, positive words<\/strong> (like &#8216;bac\u00e1n&#8217;, &#8216;ch\u00e9vere&#8217;, &#8216;pata&#8217;, and &#8216;paja&#8217;) before you use anything that sounds stronger.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid repeating words if you\u2019re not sure what they mean, especially if people laugh or say \u201ceso es fuerte\u201d (that\u2019s strong).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep slang for <strong>informal moments<\/strong>, with guides you know, new friends, bars, markets and use standard Spanish or English in hotels, museums and more formal situations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>READ ALSO: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/the-pisco-sour-a-peruvian-delight\/\">The Pisco Sour \u2013 A Peruvian Delight!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common mistakes to avoid when using Peruvian slang<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It&#8217;s important to use slang in your conversations, but don&#8217;t overdo it. Too much slang can make you seem insincere or try too hard to fit in.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Like any language, it&#8217;s important to know when to use slang. Slang can confuse or offend in the wrong context.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Know Peruvian slang&#8217;s regional variations and avoid mixing them. Some slang words and phrases are used nationwide, but others are region-specific. Misusing regional slang can cause confusion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don&#8217;t assume all Peruvians use the same slang, and be open to learning new words and phrases from different groups.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slang words and phrases often have different pronunciations from standard Spanish. Practice slang word pronunciation to avoid sounding like a beginner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Resources for mastering Peruvian slang<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best way to learn Peruvian slang is to practice with native speakers, but there are also many online resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wordreference.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">WordReference<\/a>: This popular online dictionary defines and gives examples of Peruvian slang.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/baselang.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Baselang<\/a>: This website lists common Peruvian slang words and phrases with English translations and examples.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.spanishdict.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SpanishDict<\/a>: This website provides Spanish learning resources, including Peruvian slang.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>YouTube: Many channels teach Spanish slang, including Peruvian. These videos can improve your language and culture knowledge.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Congratulations! You&#8217;ve completed your crash course in Peruvian slang!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should now understand the importance of slang in everyday conversations, some of the most popular slang words and phrases, regional variations, and tips for learning and using slang.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn the local language, whether you&#8217;re in Peru for a few days or a few weeks. Remember that learning these slang words take time, patience, and an open mind. Embracing and enjoying Peruvian slang will improve your language skills and increase your appreciation for the country&#8217;s culture and people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Practice your Peruvian slang with confidence and enthusiasm. Who knows, your newfound language skills may impress a local!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Peruvian Slang FAQs for Travelers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1767026635570\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is it safe for tourists to use Peruvian slang?<br\/><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, as long as you stick to <strong>friendly, positive expressions<\/strong> you understand. Use slang with <strong>people who are already speaking informally with you<\/strong>. Avoid strong insults or words that locals describe as \u201cmalcriado\u201d (rude).<br\/>Your guides can be your best teachers; if you\u2019re unsure, ask: <em>\u201c\u00bfEsto es grosero o est\u00e1 bien?\u201d<\/em> (Is this rude or is it okay?).<br\/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1767026669039\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are a few easy slang words I can use right away?<br\/><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If you want just a small starter pack:<br\/><strong>bac\u00e1n \/ ch\u00e9vere \/ paja<\/strong> \u2013 cool \/ great<br\/><strong>pata \/ causa<\/strong> \u2013 friend \/ buddy<br\/><strong>chela<\/strong> \u2013 beer<br\/><strong>al toque<\/strong> \u2013 right away \/ soon<br\/><strong>jato<\/strong> \u2013 house \/ place<br\/><strong>soroche<\/strong> \u2013 altitude sickness<br\/>Put them into simple sentences:<br\/><em>El tour estuvo bac\u00e1n.<\/em> \u2013 The tour was great.<br\/><em>Mi gu\u00eda es un buen pata.<\/em> \u2013 My guide is a good friend.<br\/><br\/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1767026686064\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I use slang with older Peruvians?<br\/><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, but gently. Many older Peruvians enjoy hearing visitors try a little slang but prefer <strong>respectful forms<\/strong> of address. Combine your slang with <strong>polite greetings<\/strong> (see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/how-to-say-hello-and-goodbye-in-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peruvian greetings guide<\/a>) and you\u2019ll strike a lovely balance between courtesy and friendliness.<br\/><br\/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1767026724091\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Will using slang help me connect more with locals?<br\/><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It often does. Even a simple understanding of slang lets you follow humour and tone more easily. A few carefully selected words can initiate conversation with drivers, market vendors, and hosts. Show curiosity and respect for the culture. Turn a straightforward interaction into a shared moment. Just let your Spanish, slang included,  grow naturally over your journey, and you will find that Peru responds with the same warmth you bring to it.<br\/><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Ready to start planning your custom journey to Peru? Contact us at <a>journeys@enigmaperu.com<\/a> and let&#8217;s make it happen!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><strong>Article Updated: December 26, 2025<\/strong><\/strong><br><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Take a look at the following common Peruvian slang words and phrases to help you communicate better. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":6110,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[50],"tags":[93],"class_list":["post-3748","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-peru-tips","tag-peruvian-slang"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Peruvian Slang 101: 50+ Words You\u2019ll Hear in Lima (and Beyond) - Enigma Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Understanding a few Peruvian slang words and phrases, also known as \u201cjerga\u201d, will help you make the most of your stay in Peru.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Peruvian Slang 101: 50+ Words You\u2019ll Hear in Lima (and Beyond) - 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Use slang with <strong>people who are already speaking informally with you<\/strong>. Avoid strong insults or words that locals describe as \u201cmalcriado\u201d (rude).<br\/>Your guides can be your best teachers; if you\u2019re unsure, ask: <em>\u201c\u00bfEsto es grosero o est\u00e1 bien?\u201d<\/em> (Is this rude or is it okay?).<br\/>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026669039\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026669039\",\"name\":\"What are a few easy slang words I can use right away?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"If you want just a small starter pack:<br\/><strong>bac\u00e1n \/ ch\u00e9vere \/ paja<\/strong> \u2013 cool \/ great<br\/><strong>pata \/ causa<\/strong> \u2013 friend \/ buddy<br\/><strong>chela<\/strong> \u2013 beer<br\/><strong>al toque<\/strong> \u2013 right away \/ soon<br\/><strong>jato<\/strong> \u2013 house \/ place<br\/><strong>soroche<\/strong> \u2013 altitude sickness<br\/>Put them into simple sentences:<br\/><em>El tour estuvo bac\u00e1n.<\/em> \u2013 The tour was great.<br\/><em>Mi gu\u00eda es un buen pata.<\/em> \u2013 My guide is a good friend.<br\/><br\/>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026686064\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026686064\",\"name\":\"Can I use slang with older Peruvians?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, but gently. Many older Peruvians enjoy hearing visitors try a little slang but prefer <strong>respectful forms<\/strong> of address. Combine your slang with <strong>polite greetings<\/strong> (see our <a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/how-to-say-hello-and-goodbye-in-peru\/\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noreferrer noopener\\\">Peruvian greetings guide<\/a>) and you\u2019ll strike a lovely balance between courtesy and friendliness.<br\/><br\/>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026724091\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026724091\",\"name\":\"Will using slang help me connect more with locals?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"It often does. Even a simple understanding of slang lets you follow humour and tone more easily. A few carefully selected words can initiate conversation with drivers, market vendors, and hosts. Show curiosity and respect for the culture. Turn a straightforward interaction into a shared moment. 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Use slang with <strong>people who are already speaking informally with you<\/strong>. Avoid strong insults or words that locals describe as \u201cmalcriado\u201d (rude).<br\/>Your guides can be your best teachers; if you\u2019re unsure, ask: <em>\u201c\u00bfEsto es grosero o est\u00e1 bien?\u201d<\/em> (Is this rude or is it okay?).<br\/>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026669039","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026669039","name":"What are a few easy slang words I can use right away?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you want just a small starter pack:<br\/><strong>bac\u00e1n \/ ch\u00e9vere \/ paja<\/strong> \u2013 cool \/ great<br\/><strong>pata \/ causa<\/strong> \u2013 friend \/ buddy<br\/><strong>chela<\/strong> \u2013 beer<br\/><strong>al toque<\/strong> \u2013 right away \/ soon<br\/><strong>jato<\/strong> \u2013 house \/ place<br\/><strong>soroche<\/strong> \u2013 altitude sickness<br\/>Put them into simple sentences:<br\/><em>El tour estuvo bac\u00e1n.<\/em> \u2013 The tour was great.<br\/><em>Mi gu\u00eda es un buen pata.<\/em> \u2013 My guide is a good friend.<br\/><br\/>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026686064","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026686064","name":"Can I use slang with older Peruvians?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, but gently. Many older Peruvians enjoy hearing visitors try a little slang but prefer <strong>respectful forms<\/strong> of address. Combine your slang with <strong>polite greetings<\/strong> (see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/how-to-say-hello-and-goodbye-in-peru\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peruvian greetings guide<\/a>) and you\u2019ll strike a lovely balance between courtesy and friendliness.<br\/><br\/>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026724091","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/a-crash-course-to-peruvian-slang\/#faq-question-1767026724091","name":"Will using slang help me connect more with locals?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"It often does. Even a simple understanding of slang lets you follow humour and tone more easily. A few carefully selected words can initiate conversation with drivers, market vendors, and hosts. Show curiosity and respect for the culture. Turn a straightforward interaction into a shared moment. Just let your Spanish, slang included,  grow naturally over your journey, and you will find that Peru responds with the same warmth you bring to it.<br\/>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3748","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3748"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3748\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6667,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3748\/revisions\/6667"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6110"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3748"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3748"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.enigmaperu.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3748"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}