Whenever travelling to a new country, one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience is blending in with the local culture and people. There are many ways to do it, but the best approach is to speak the native language of the place you are travelling. It is the door to connecting with any local expert almost immediately.
You can take your language to an even higher level by learning the local dialect. But, if you want to take it a step further, the best thing to do is to know the slang!
Whether you speak Spanish or not, learning some of these common Peruvian Slang words will help you infiltrate Peruvian culture. It will bring an understanding of the Peru way of life and how they speak to one another. It can even help you make some friends in Peru!
List of Peruvian Slang Words
1. Cholo: This is one of the most common words in Peru. Although in some contexts it may have a negative meaning, it is currently a synonym for “Peruvian” in the context of trust and friendship. It is also used to call someone in a friendly or caring way.
2. Pe: is a common form in Peruvian colloquial speech. It is used to reaffirm what was said, and it is placed at the end of a sentence.
3. Ya: This word has many meanings in Peru. The most common translations would be: “already”, “yes”, “are you done?”, “I understand”.
4. ¡Asu!: Expression of Surprise.
5. ¡Ala!: Expression of Surprise.
6. ¡Manya!: Expression of Surprise.
7. ¿Manyas?: Do you understand me?
8. Escúchame: Word used as a preamble before saying something to gain the attention of the other people around you. Very common in Lima. Sometimes it involves touching the shoulder.
9. Al toque: Quickly.
10. Sacar la vuelta: cheat or lie on a personal or professional level
11. Casero(a): This word is widely used in markets, especially in the provinces of Peru, for regular sellers or buyers.
12. Combi: Buses for public transportation in Lima and some other places in Peru.
13. Guachimán: Security guard on the street.
14. Sánguche: Sandwich.
15. Lonche: Snack around six in the afternoon.
16. Señito: Affectionate way of calling an older person.
17. Pituco: An arrogant person with money.
18. Habla: The most informal way in Peru for “Hello.” It is very common to hear Peruvians use this word, but it is used only in very informal contexts among very good friends.
19. Batería: Friends.
20. Qué fue: How are you?
21. Ahí: It may mean “more or less” depending on the intonation.
22. Lucas, mangos, maracas, balas: Soles (local currency).
23. Una china: 50 cents.
24. Cocos: US dollars.
25. Causa, pata, broder, chochera: Friend.
26. Mi flaca, mi flaco: My partner.
27. Tío, tía: Older person.
28. Bacán, chévere, paja: Cool
29. Chamba: Work.
30. Cachuelo: Temporary work.
31. Choro: Thief.
32. Chapa tu combi, apágate: Go away.
33. Mamacita: Very sexy woman.
34. Papacito: Very sexy man.
35. Misio: when someone does not have money.
36. Monse: Boring.
37. Roche: Shame.
38. Tombo: Policeman.
39. Jamear, papear: Eat.
40. Jato: Home.
41. Chapar: to kiss.
42. Yapa: to receive something extra than what you ask for.
43. Taipá: A lot of food.
44. Chela: Beer.
45. Hacer la chancha: Split the bill between everyone.
46. Piña: Bad luck.
47. Chibolo: kid.
48. Calato: nacked.
The usefulness of this list is immeasurable. When travelling around the streets of Lima, Cusco, Arequipa or another Peruvian town/city you will find that there are many words you don’t recognize, regardless of how advanced your Spanish is. Becoming familiar with these words and phrases can mean the difference between someone calling you a friend, or not.
Learning this slang and using it where you see fit, will allow you to establish your own Peruvian identity, and show the people around you that you respect their culture enough to incorporate it into your speech.
But you don’t have to worry, your private Veru Voyage guide will take care of you, and if you are interested you can learn some more Peruvian Slang with him on your next holiday to Peru.