Speaking the Language of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a vibrant country rich in culture and language, where slang sayings and expressions play a significant role in everyday communication. These colloquialisms reflect Costa Ricans’ unique identity and offer insight into their social interactions and cultural nuances. If you’re planning a trip or are considering moving to Costa Rica, then understanding these expressions can enhance your appreciation of the local dialect and help you foster deeper connections with the people and their “pura vida” lifestyle.

This article explores the fascinating world of Costa Rican slang, highlighting some of the most commonly used terms and expressions, their origins, meanings, and the contexts in which they’re commonly used.

A Guide to the Slang, Sayings & Expressions of Costa Rica

Every Spanish-speaking country has its unique twist on the language, much like how British English differs from American English. Costa Rican Spanish, or “tico” Spanish, features distinct pronunciations and expressions that set it apart from other Spanish dialects, such as those used in Mexico or Spain. For example, Costa Ricans often use “usted” instead of “tú” for informal situations, reflecting a cultural emphasis on politeness. Local slang and idiomatic expressions also add to the richness of the language, making it a vibrant part of Costa Rican identity.

10 Common Costa Rican Slang Sayings

To help you sound like a local, here’s a list of some of the most common terms and expressions you’ll likely hear people say in Costa Rica. This is just a start for learning to speak Costa Rican, as Ticos love to create new words and expressions. Thankfully, (or shall we say “por dicha”) Ticos also love to share their culture and will happily teach you as much slang as you can remember.

1. Pura Vida

Costa Rica’s most popular saying, “pura vida” translates to “pure life” and embodies a philosophy of enjoying life to the fullest. It’s commonly used as a greeting or farewell, reflecting a laid-back attitude and appreciation for the simple joys in life. This phrase captures the essence of the Tico lifestyle, promoting positivity and a sense of community among locals and visitors alike.

2. Tico/Tica

The terms “tico” and “tica” are used to describe the people of Costa Rica. A “Tico” is a Costa Rican man and a “Tica” is a Costa Rican woman, while “Ticos” is the plural term for both. Ticos tend to make things diminutive with the suffix -tico or -tica, so much so they were named after it! For example, Ticos created words like “pequeñitica” (small country), “chiquitico” (used to describe something small), or “azulitico” (used to describe Costa Rica’s very blue sky). It’s very endearing!

3. Mae

Pronounced like “my”, the Costa Rican term “mae” might be the most often said word in Costa Rica, next to Pura Vida. It translates to words like “bro”, ”dude”, or ”man” and is frequently used among the surfing community, much like in the United States.

4. Tuanis

This term “tuanis” may have originated from a misheard mispronunciation of “too nice”. Pronounced like “too-a-knees”, “tuanis” means “cool” and is mainly used by the younger generations.

5. A Cachete

The saying “a cachete” translates to “a cheek” in literal terms, but in Costa Rican slang speak, it means everything is going great! You are out enjoying life, the sun is shining, the waves are crashing and you can shout “A Cachete!”

6. Chunche/Chunches

The term “chunche” or “chunches” for plural, is used for words like “thing” or “stuff” when you can’t think of the proper name for an item or are unsure how to pronounce it – kind of like the terms you’d commonly hear in North America, like “whatchamacallit” or “thingamajig” or “doohickey”.

7. Por Dicha

The translation for the Costa Rican expression “por dicha” is “bliss” and is used in place of words like “fortunately”, “thankfully”, or “luckily”. It’s also used as an expression of gratitude and thankfulness.

8. Zaguate

My personal favorite, the term “zaquate” is used to refer to a street dog. But not just any street dog – a Costa Rican street dog! A “zaguate” is the perfect mix of so many dog breeds that you can’t tell the origin anymore. A zaguate is the absolute best friend you will ever have!

9. Birra

Pronounced like “beer-a”, the term “birra” is used for… you guessed it, beer! This means there’s no need to use the word “cerveza” here – Costa Ricans will understand what you’re asking for when you order a nice cold “birra”.

10. Wacala

The Costa Rican slang term “wacala” is used for words like “eww” and “yuck!” For example, if you eat something not so tasty or step into something unsavory, you can shout “Wacala!”

With that, we’ll leave you with a translation pop quiz::