Unique Slang Phrases From La Boca You Won't Find In Textbooks
What Are Some Unique Slang Phrases From La Boca, Buenos Aires?
Ready to stroll through La Boca without sticking out like a sore thumb? Dive into these local slang phrases and you'll be chatting like a porteño in no time!
1. Che
Translation: Hey / Listen
Explanation: This versatile word is like the Swiss Army knife of slang. Whether you're calling someone for attention or agreeing in conversation, "che" is your go-to. Just don't let the Che Guevara confusion fool you—here, it's all about that friendly nudge!
2. Boludo/Boluda
Translation: Dude (sometimes affectionate, sometimes not)
Explanation: Toggle with care! In La Boca, "boludo" can be a term of endearment among buddies, much like "dude" or "mate." But tread lightly—if you say "¡Sos un boludo!" while actually annoyed, it flips to a dimwitted jab. Context is key. A fellow hipster in San Telmo? They might throw it back at you with more wink and less sting.
3. Quilombo
Translation: A big mess
Explanation: In Buenos Aires chaos theory, "quilombo" ranks high. Whether it's your tangled earphones or that epic party cleanup, this word captures it. The fun part? It originally referred to runaway slave communities. In Boca, it's now your chaotic everything.
4. Laburo
Translation: Work, job
Explanation: Another day, another peso, right? "Laburo" is how the locals talk shop. It's pure lunfardo, Buenos Aires's own slang dialect. So when you hear someone complain about their "laburo," they're just doing the Monday morning grumble.
5. Morfar
Translation: To eat
Explanation: Hungry? Fancy some empanadas? Time to "morfar"! This playful, slightly comedic term channels your inner glutton with a side of drama. Perfect for when you're starving—and let’s face it, who can resist dropping it when those steak aromas hit?
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