Typical Colombian expressions you should master if you want to speak like a local

If you're learning Spanish in Colombia or planning to visit the country, mastering the language isn't just about grammar and academic vocabulary. You also need to learn how Colombians speak in real life! In this article, you'll discover some of the most authentic expressions that will make you sound like a local, better understand everyday conversations, and connect more easily with Colombian culture.

Why learn local expressions?

Idiomatic expressions and idioms are an essential part of the Spanish spoken in Colombia. Using them will help you:

• Better understand native speakers in real-life contexts.

• Gain the trust of locals by speaking their language.

• Enhance your vocabulary and sound more natural.

• Avoid misunderstandings caused by phrases that aren't literal.

Typical Colombian expressions you should know

Here are some common phrases in Colombia, their meanings, and examples of usage so you can apply them right away:

1. “Estar en la jugada”

Meaning: To be aware or up to date with what's going on.

Example: "Tienes que estar en la jugada si quieres entender cómo funciona esta ciudad." - "You have to be in the know if you want to understand how this city works."

2. “Ir a lo bien”

Meaning: To speak seriously or sincerely.

Example: "A lo bien, esa película estuvo buenísima." - "Well, that movie was great."

3. “Ser un duro”

Meaning: To be very good at something, to be an expert.

Example: "Juan es un duro en matemáticas." - "Juan is tough at math."

4. “Qué boleta”

Meaning: What a shame or what a pity.

Example: "¡Qué boleta quedarse dormido en la reunión!" - "What a shame to fall asleep in the meeting!"

5. “Dar papaya”

Meaning: Putting yourself in a risky situation or being easily fooled.

Example: "No saques el celular en la calle, no des papaya." - "Don't take out your cell phone on the street, don't give papaya."

6. “Tirar caja”

Meaning: Laugh a lot or make jokes.

Example: "Con ellos siempre se tira caja, son muy graciosos." - "You always have a good time with them, they are very funny."

7. “Fresco”

Meaning: Don't worry, no problem.

Example: "¿Se te cayó el vaso? ¡Fresco, yo lo recojo!" - "Did you drop your glass? Don't worry, I'll pick it up!"

8. “Pilas”

Meaning: Pay attention or be careful.

Example: "¡Pilas! Esa calle es muy sola." - "Watch out! That street is very lonely."

9. “Quedarse en las mismas”

Meaning: Not having understood anything or being confused.

Example: "Después de esa explicación, me quedé en las mismas."  - "After that explanation, I remained the same."

Conclusion

Learning these expressions will not only make you speak like a true Colombian, but will also bring you closer to the country's culture, people, and experiences. Don't be afraid to use them and keep exploring more colloquialisms! Speaking like a local is one of the most authentic ways to connect with a new language.