The Language and Sayings of Puerto Rico
It's always a little jarring when your six years of advanced Spanish fall flat as soon as you step off the boat and into a foreign land, isn't it? In Puerto Rico, that phenomenon is especially true, as much of the language is a uniquely 'Rican invention. Spend some time on this glossary and expand your vocabulary.
Common Phrases and Sayings in Puerto Rico
As in any foreign land, unique phrases abound in Puerto Rico. Knowing a few of them will help you communicate with, understand, and maybe even surprise the locals. From pickup lines to insults, it's always good to know a little bit of the local flavor. These sayings will tickle your tongue, and maybe give you a chuckle or two.
As in any foreign land, unique phrases abound in Puerto Rico. Knowing a few of them will help you communicate with, understand, and maybe even surprise the locals. From pickup lines to insults, it's always good to know a little bit of the local flavor. These sayings will tickle your tongue, and maybe give you a chuckle or two.
Boricua
All things Puerto Rican.
All things Puerto Rican.
Balneario
For the Spanish speakers at home, it's a specific type of "playa."
For the Spanish speakers at home, it's a specific type of "playa."
Bichote
Probably not a word you want to hear, or be associated with, while you're on the island.
Probably not a word you want to hear, or be associated with, while you're on the island.
Birra
You might know it better as "cerveza."
You might know it better as "cerveza."
Cafre
A general-use insult.
A general-use insult.
Cuero
One of many names for those who practice the world's oldest profession.
One of many names for those who practice the world's oldest profession.
Guagua
It took me a long time to stop chuckling every time I hailed one of these.
It took me a long time to stop chuckling every time I hailed one of these.
Jolgorio
Definition of a Jolgorio, a Puerto Rican Christmas holiday party that doesn't wait for Christmas.
Definition of a Jolgorio, a Puerto Rican Christmas holiday party that doesn't wait for Christmas.
Jonrón
A perfect example of American influence in Puerto Rican society. Try to say it out loud and figure out what it means ...
A perfect example of American influence in Puerto Rican society. Try to say it out loud and figure out what it means ...
Mitin
Another English word gone South ... geographically speaking, of course.
Another English word gone South ... geographically speaking, of course.
Negro
It is what you think ... and it's not what you think.
It is what you think ... and it's not what you think.
Peso
Yes, it's a unit of currency ... but notice something unusual?
Yes, it's a unit of currency ... but notice something unusual?
Wiken
Another one that you'll figure out if you sound it out.
Another one that you'll figure out if you sound it out.