An adjective describing something that lacks straightness, whether physically crooked or morally corrupt. It applies to anything from a poorly built wall to a shady business deal or a permit obtained through bribery.
You better find another agent because that paperwork looks really chueco and I do not want any trouble with the law.
To make someone feel shy, bashful, or self-conscious, often causing them to blush. It is commonly used when someone is put on the spot or given an unexpected compliment.
Every time I tell her she looks really pretty she starts to chivear and doesn't even know what to say.
This term refers to a seashell, but in Mexico, it primarily describes a popular sweet bread roll with a crunchy sugar crust that mimics a round, striated shell pattern.
I love dunking my vanilla concha in hot chocolate when it is cold.
This is a technical unit used to measure light intensity, equivalent to one-sixtieth of the brightness emitted by one square centimeter of a blackbody at the temperature of melting platinum (in English, this refers to candlepower).
The old headlight manual still measures the power in bujías, so I had to look up how much light that actually is.
The final course of a meal that consists of something sweet or a piece of fruit to round things out. It is that final little craving served right after the main dish to wash away the salty flavor.
I am already full from the tacos, but go ahead and order a postre for us to share because that lemon pie looks amazing.
This is the thin rolling paper used to wrap and roll a marijuana cigarette. In Mexico, smokers use this term to refer to the small sheets, usually made of rice paper, needed to roll a joint.
Do you have a Cañá you can give me? I have the weed ready but I am missing the paper to roll it.
A folk dance and music style typical of the Yucatan and Campeche regions, known for its rhythmic foot-stomping and blend of influences. It is the centerpiece of traditional festivals in southeastern Mexico (these celebrations are often called vaquerías and frequently feature dancers balancing trays or bottles on their heads).
I would love to go to Yucatan to see in person how the women do not drop the tray while dancing jarana.
Used to describe something that surpasses others of its kind in quality or is in a superior state than it was before. It indicates that one option is more suitable or that an action is being performed with more skill than previously.
For real, this car runs much mejor since we took it to the shop, it doesn't feel so sluggish anymore.
To fuck or have casual sex purely for physical pleasure, without any emotional strings or commitment. It describes sexual encounters where the sole objective is carnal gratification with no strings attached. (In Mexico, this is a vulgar term).
Honestly, I am not interested in dating her, we just meet up to culear for a while on the weekends.
A slangy, shortened version of mamacita used to describe a woman who is incredibly attractive or has a stunning physique. It is used to point out that someone is very hot or fine (mamacita is a common Mexican term for a sexy woman).
No way, did you see the new girl at the office? She is totally masita.
Refers to the spiritual bond established between a child's father and the godfather after a religious sacrament, such as a baptism. It describes a relationship of mutual respect and deep trust between the two men. (In Mexican culture, this bond is often considered as strong as a blood relation and implies a lifelong commitment of support.)
My compadre invited me to a cookout to celebrate that his son, my godson, just started elementary school.
A person who is naturally witty and funny due to their clever remarks and antics. It describes someone with a lighthearted sense of humor who is always entertaining to be around.
I love chatting with your uncle because he is so chusco and always comes out with such witty quips that make my day.
Refers to mulling something over or chewing on an idea to understand it or make a decision, as well as intending to carry out a plan. It also expresses an opinion or the impression one forms about a person or situation.
I pensaba you were not going to show up to the meeting, but it is good you stopped by.
Used to describe a person, usually a child, who is extremely restless and prone to making mischief. It refers to a little rascal who cannot stay still and is always looking for trouble. (In Mexican Spanish, the term is a common euphemism for a small devil or imp).
That nephew of yours is a pingo, I looked away for just a second and he had already painted the whole bedroom wall.
Used to indicate the absolute absence of any object, fact, or element. It is the basic term for describing a void or when there is not a single thing present in a specific situation.
I asked the mechanic what was wrong with my car and he told me he didn't find Nada, that it is running at a hundred (a common expression meaning it is in perfect condition).
Refers to rolls of fat around the abdomen that bulge over the waistband of a person's pants. It is the common Mexican term for love handles or a spare tire.
I really need to start a diet because with so much sweet bread I am already getting a very noticeable llanta.
A person who is always game or down for any group plan or activity with a positive attitude. It describes someone who does not hesitate and is the first to sign up for whatever others suggest.
I like inviting Rodrigo on the group rides because he is totally jalador and never makes excuses to go see new places.
Refers to various official documents, receipts, or forms used as proof of a transaction or procedure. It is most commonly used to mean a school report card or the ticket issued by a pawn shop when an item is left as collateral.
The school year is almost over and I really need them to give me the boleta to see if I managed to pass all my subjects.
To build a perimeter wall or a solid fence around a plot of land or property. It is the common term used when marking off the boundaries of a house to provide security and privacy.
We had to scrape together some cash so we could bardear the lot before squatters moved in.
It is that jolt of nerves that hits your body when you feel like something bad is coming or you run into something unknown. It shows up when you freeze up, start shaking, or just totally lose your cool over a real or imaginary threat.
I got a whole lot of Miedo when all the lights in the house went out and I heard someone open the door.
Used to describe a thin or skinny person. It is also a very common term of endearment for a friend or romantic partner, regardless of their actual body type (in Mexico, physical traits are frequently used as affectionate nicknames).
Hey, flaca, you look great in that dress you bought for the wedding.
Used to show that an action or thing is added to what was already mentioned. It implies that something extra is happening or is included in the current plan.
We went to watch the game at the stadium and también stayed for the party after they won.
Used to describe a person, animal, or object that is very attractive, cute, or aesthetically pleasing. It is the common Mexican way to say something is beautiful or looks great. (In Mexico this is a positive term, though in other regions it can mean cocky or refer to a pimp).
Did you see the dress my sister bought? It looks really chulo on her.
To cut someone off from something they enjoy or are used to, specifically by taking away a treat or a privilege. It is commonly used when restricting someone from fun activities as a disciplinary measure.
Juanito got grounded and they chose to privar him of his soccer game because he did not clean his room.
An informal and somewhat blunt term used to describe a woman who is exceptionally beautiful or has a very attractive body. It is a direct way of saying someone is a total babe or a knockout.
Your cousin is so lucky: his girlfriend is a forro and she is really cool, too.
Refers to someone's physical appearance, vibe, or look. It is the external image a person projects that gives an immediate impression of their style or personality.
That guy has the whole Pinta of an artist because of how he dresses and does his hair.