Spanish is spoken in over 20 countries, and while the language is mostly unified, some words take on entirely different meanings depending on where you are. What’s harmless in one country might be scandalous in another. Here are 10 Spanish words that shift meaning across borders.
1. Coger
Coger
/koˈxeɾ/“To take / To fuck”
In Spain, 'coger' simply means 'to take' or 'to grab' (e.g., 'Voy a coger el autobús'). But in much of Latin America, it’s a vulgar slang term for sexual intercourse. Stick to 'tomar' or 'agarrar' to avoid raised eyebrows.
2. Guagua
Guagua
/ˈɡwaɡwa/“Bus / Baby”
In the Caribbean (Cuba, Dominican Republic), 'guagua' means 'bus.' In Chile, it means 'baby.' Confusingly, in the Andes, 'wawa' (from Quechua) also means 'child.' Context is key!
3. Paja
Paja
/ˈpaxa/“Straw / Laziness / Masturbation”
In Spain, 'paja' is straw (for drinking). In Argentina, it means 'laziness' ('¡Qué paja!'). But in many countries, it’s slang for masturbation. Proceed with caution.
4. Concha
Concha
/ˈkon.tʃa/“Seashell / Vulgar term”
In coastal regions, 'concha' means 'seashell.' In Argentina and Uruguay, it’s a crude term for female genitalia. In Mexico, it’s a sweet bread. Choose your context wisely.
5. Chucho
Chucho
/ˈtʃu.tʃo/“Dog / Fear / Jail”
In Mexico, 'chucho' is a mutt. In Colombia, it means 'fear.' In Honduras, it’s slang for 'jail.' A word with more identities than a spy.
6. Torta
Torta
/ˈtoɾta/“Cake / Sandwich / Slap”
In Spain, 'torta' is a flat cake. In Mexico, it’s a hefty sandwich. In Argentina, 'una torta' can mean 'a slap in the face.' Don’t order dessert too aggressively.
7. Fresa
Fresa
/ˈfɾesa/“Strawberry / Snob”
Everywhere, 'fresa' means 'strawberry.' But in Mexico, it’s also slang for a snobbish, privileged person. A fruity insult.
8. Cacho
Cacho
/ˈkat͡ʃo/“Piece / Lie / Luck”
In Spain, 'cacho' is a 'piece' of something. In Chile, 'un cacho' is 'a lie.' In Peru, 'tener cacho' means 'to be lucky.' A word with split personalities.
9. Mono
Mono
/ˈmono/“Monkey / Blonde / Cute”
Standard meaning: 'monkey.' In Colombia, 'mono/a' describes a blonde person. In Spain, 'qué mono' means 'how cute!' A versatile little word.
10. Chivo
Chivo
/ˈt͡ʃibo/“Goat / Cool / Favor”
Literally 'goat,' but in El Salvador, 'chivo' means 'cool.' In the Dominican Republic, 'un chivo' is a favor. Don’t confuse compliments with livestock.
Spanish is full of regional quirks. If you’re learning, check out our guide on untranslatable Portuguese words for more linguistic surprises.
