Spanish words that have different meanings in different countries

Spanish is spoken as a primary language in 20 countries across the world. It is not surprising therefore that Spanish has evolved, resulting in unique words, accents and slang specific to different countries.

Today we look at certain words which have different meanings in different countries. And watch out – some of these Spanish words mean something completely innocent in one country, and something not-so-innocent in another!

Coche

This means ‘car’ in Spain. However, in Guatemala, it is slang for ‘pig.’

Chivo

In most Spanish speaking countries ‘chivo’ means goat. However in Uruguay and Argentina it is the armpit smell.

Tengo olor a chivo – I have armpit odour.

Coger

‘Coger’ means ‘to take’ in Spain, however, it is also slang for fornicating in Guatemala.

So ‘coger el coche’ means ‘to take the car’ in Spain, but will mean something completely different in Guatemala!

Chucho

In Guatemala, ‘chucho’ is what they call dogs. However, in Honduras this means ‘stingy’ and in Chile it means ‘jail.’

Fresa

‘Fresa’ is used in some Spanish-speaking countries to refer to a strawberry. However, in Mexico, ‘fresa’ is also used for someone who is rather fancy.

Guagua

In Chile, ‘guagua’ means baby. However in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico it is a ‘bus.’

Jugo

In Latin America, ‘jugo’ translates as ‘juice.’ However, in Spain this is the liquid that comes out of meat. (‘Zumo’ is used for juice in Spain).

Saco

In Spain, ‘saco’ refers to a large bag. However, in Dominican Republic and Panama, ‘saco’ is a jacket.

We hope you enjoyed this week’s blog and if you would like to improve your Spanish further, try a free Spanish lesson with one of our teachers!