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5,700 Spanish Slang Words: The Secret Map of How Each Country Speaks
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Add a word/Sounds like "pehn" (as in "pet") + "DEH" (as in "debt") + "hoh" (as in "hope")/
Meaning
A fool, idiot, or coward, with intensity and meaning that varies significantly by country. In Mexico it is a strong insult. In Argentina it can be milder or even affectionate between friends depending on tone. Across Latin America the word shifts from cutting to casual based on context and relationship.
Examples
“Don't be an idiot, read the contract carefully before you sign it.”
“That fool got himself into a mess that wasn't his by not asking first.”
/Sounds like "pehn" (as in "pet") + "DEH" (as in "debt") + "hoh" (as in "hope")/
Meaning
In Peru, a crafty, street-smart person who always finds a way to get ahead at someone else's expense. The "pendejo" is always one step ahead, working every angle.
Examples
“That guy overcharged you, check the bill.”
“Don't play dumb, pay what you owe.”
Regional synonyms
/Sounds like "pehn" (as in "pet") + "DEH" (as in "debt") + "hoh" (as in "hope")/
Meaning
A stupid, cowardly person or someone who makes bad decisions. It's one of the most common insults in Mexico and Latin America, but between friends it can be used affectionately.
Examples
“Don't be a pendejo, that's not how you do it.”
“He played dumb when they asked him.”
“We're such pendejos but we love each other.”
Showing 3 definitions, sorted by votes
Community
Your word isn't here yet
Join Hablaaa and add the expression no one else has documented.
/Sounds like "pehn" (as in "pet") + "DEH" (as in "debt") + "hoh" (as in "hope")/
Meaning
A fool, idiot, or coward, with intensity and meaning that varies significantly by country. In Mexico it is a strong insult. In Argentina it can be milder or even affectionate between friends depending on tone. Across Latin America the word shifts from cutting to casual based on context and relationship.
Examples
“Don't be an idiot, read the contract carefully before you sign it.”
“That fool got himself into a mess that wasn't his by not asking first.”
/Sounds like "pehn" (as in "pet") + "DEH" (as in "debt") + "hoh" (as in "hope")/
Meaning
In Peru, a crafty, street-smart person who always finds a way to get ahead at someone else's expense. The "pendejo" is always one step ahead, working every angle.
Examples
“That guy overcharged you, check the bill.”
“Don't play dumb, pay what you owe.”
Regional synonyms
/Sounds like "pehn" (as in "pet") + "DEH" (as in "debt") + "hoh" (as in "hope")/
Meaning
A stupid, cowardly person or someone who makes bad decisions. It's one of the most common insults in Mexico and Latin America, but between friends it can be used affectionately.
Examples
“Don't be a pendejo, that's not how you do it.”
“He played dumb when they asked him.”
“We're such pendejos but we love each other.”
Showing 3 definitions, sorted by votes
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Pájaro bravo
A street-smart, cunning person who knows how to navigate any situation and always comes out on top. In Venezuela, a pájaro bravo knows every trick in the book and always lands on their feet.