Costa Rica, a tropical paradise nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, is not just known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems but also for its unique language and cultural nuances.
Tico Spanish Words
These are some of the Tico Spanish words that you should know if you are planning to visit Costa Rica and talk to the locals.
1. Mae: Derived from the English word “man,” “mae” is a colloquial term widely used in Costa Rica to refer to a friend or buddy. It’s a versatile word that can be heard in casual conversations, bringing a sense of familiarity and camaraderie among locals. For example, you might hear someone say, “¡Hola, mae! ¿Cómo estás?” which translates to “Hey, buddy! How are you?”
2. Tuanis: An expression that denotes something cool, great, or awesome, “tuanis” is deeply ingrained in Costa Rican slang. When locals want to express approval or excitement, you’ll often hear them use this word. For instance, if you ask someone about their day, and they had a fantastic experience, they might respond with “Estuvo tuanis,” meaning “It was awesome.”
3. Gallo Pinto: While not a slang term, “Gallo Pinto” is a staple of Costa Rican cuisine and deserves a spot in our exploration. This traditional dish, consisting of rice and beans mixed together, is a breakfast favorite. The name translates to “painted rooster,” and its origins are deeply rooted in the country’s agricultural history. A morning conversation in Costa Rica might revolve around the simple joy of sharing a plate of Gallo Pinto.
4. Pulpería: A small convenience store or a corner shop is commonly known as a “pulpería” in Costa Rica. These establishments are essential hubs for locals to grab daily necessities or enjoy a quick snack. If you find yourself in need of something on the go, you can ask someone for directions to the nearest pulpería.
5. Tico/Tica: Costa Ricans affectionately refer to themselves as “ticos” (for males) and “ticas” (for females). This endearing term is a symbol of national pride and unity. If you make friends with locals, they might introduce themselves as proud “ticos” or “ticas.”
6. Guaro: For those looking to experience the local nightlife, “guaro” is a term you should become familiar with. It refers to a popular Costa Rican liquor made from sugarcane. Whether you’re at a beach party or a local bar, you might be offered a shot of guaro to fully immerse yourself in the social scene.
7. Hora Tica: In Costa Rica, punctuality is often a flexible concept. “Tico time” refers to the relaxed approach locals have towards schedules and time management. If someone tells you they’ll meet you at a certain time, don’t be surprised if they arrive a bit later. Embrace the laid-back rhythm and adapt to the easygoing pace of “Tico time.”
8. Aguevado: In Costa Rican slang, “aguevado” can also be used to express a feeling of being sad or downhearted. So, you might translate “estoy aguevado” as “I am feeling down” or “I am sad.”
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Latest Posts and Updates
These are the latest 15 posts that were published or updated
What does Playo Mean?
Playo is a demeaning word which means homosexual in Costa Rica, the world could also be used to describe a man who is not man enough to do something.
What does Pulpería Mean in Costa Rica?
These are some sentences including the word pulpería if you really want to understand Ticos and Ticas. Voy pa’ la pulpería
What Does Soda Mean in Costa Rica?
For those seeking an authentic taste of Costa Rica, venturing into a soda is a must. Vamos a la soda, Acompañame a la soda.
What Does Tuanis Mean in Costa Rica?
In this post, you will learn about the origins of the words “tuanis” and how to use it in different contexts. Ese mae es bien Tuanis
What Does Mae Mean in Costa Rica?
Mae is the Tico way of saying buddy or dude and it means, there is a sense of familiarity, a shared connection among amigos.
What does Pura Vida Mean?
we use Pura Vida to indicate that everything is OK, a person is really friendly, polite, helpful and that a person or a group of people is doing good.