JERGAS AND SPOKES IN MEDELLÍN

The most paisas Colombian words to be one more in Medellín

In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of the dialect of the Paisa region of Colombia, an area known for its cultural and linguistic richness. From the vibrant streets of Medellín to the picturesque towns of Antioquia, the words paisas reflect the unique identity of its people and their history.

Get ready for a linguistic journey full of charm and authenticity. Let's learn together the secrets of this rich vocabulary and celebrate the essence of Paisa speech!

Typical phrase from the city of Medellín

Here we will find a list of common words and expressions in the Paisa dialect, which are characteristic of speech in the region of Antioquia and its surroundings.

1. Amañar: It is said to be comfortable and happy in some situation or place.

Typical example, you get into a taxi and you start talking to the driver and he asks you: “¿Está amañado en Medellín?"

2. Berraco:It is another of the most typical words that Paisas say. Popularized internationally by Pablo Escobar.

Berraco It can refer to an outstanding, practical, brave person or also to someone who is very upset, angry.

Example: You go to see the parade of silleteros at the Flower Fair and you hear a countryman with great pride say “These silleteros are very berracos!”  or when you look bad “Mi hermana está berraca porque no la llamé”.

3. Charro: The meaning of this paisa expression is used to say that something is very funny or that it makes you laugh.

Example, you go to the cinema to see any movie that is not by Adam Sandler: “Tan charra esa película” 

4. Farra: This is one of the words that is never missing in the dictionary of a paisa. Farra is used to refer to a party.

Example, on a typical Friday, after class there is no shortage of people asking: “¿Dónde es la farra esta noche?” 

AlcolirykoZ - Medellificación (con Jerónimo) Prod. El Arkeólogo

5. Parce: It is possibly the paisa word par excellence. One of the most used, if not the most among the inhabitants of this city and Antioch in general.

It is used to refer to someone, a friend or even someone you don't know.

Example anytime, anyone, anywhere “Parce, ¿qué horas tenés?” 

6. Pola: When we talk about polas we are referring to beer. The term was coined in 1911, for a special edition label in honor of the heroine of independence, Policarpa Salavarrieta.

Example, at noon with an impressive sun: “¿Vamos al tienda por unas polas?”

7. Epa y Sizas: These two paisa words are used to say “yes” in a more colloquial way.

Example, you simply replace the word: “¿Tienes clase en la tarde?” -Sizas, parce” o “Nea ¿y si vamos a comer helado al parque? – Epa! vamos”

8. Nea: Probably the most popular word in the urban culture of Medellín. This expression was born in the neighborhoods of Medellín and has been popularized by reggaeton singers of Paisa origin, such as FEID, Nea can be used to refer to a friend or it can be a style in itself: loose clothing, haircut known as the seven “7” and often accompanied by caps and glasses.

So don't worry if they tell you: No sabe lo que me pasó Nea…, they are referring to you as a friend or even if you ask yourself: ¿cuál estilo es ese? You're probably seeing a Nea.

9. Achantar: It is said to feel sorry or ashamed for some reason.

Example: “Se achantó cuando le habló a esa nena”

10. Azarar: It is one of the Paisa words that are used that have several meanings. It can mean getting scared or feeling anxious or afraid and can also be used to try to get someone to speed up what they are doing.

Examples:“¿Vamos al clásico (DIM vs NAC)?” -“De una, ¡no azara!” o “Azare a su amigo para que nos venga a recoger pues”.

Another example of paisa phrase: “No se me azare, parce” (No se me asuste, parce)

Offensive words also have another meaning in Medellín, here we show you which ones

11. Chimba: It generally serves to refer to something extremely good or beautiful. Although, it can also be used to express dislike towards someone or something.

This example was said by a very famous paisa, you surely know Juanes, who said:"¡Medellín es una chimba!" or also use it as: "¡La chimba que me voy con ese aguacero!"

12. Gonorrea: With that name, this paisa word could not mean something pleasant. That's for sure. Being the name of a venereal disease, Gonorrhea is used to categorize something as bad, unpleasant, and can even be used as an insult.

Example, you're trying to be funny but comedy isn't your thing. “¡Qué gonorrea de chiste!”

13. Hijueputa: "Sadly, the word son'e puta has been vulgarized a lot, but the word hijueputa is a relaxing word." AlcolirykoZ - Homemade Serum (Prod. El Arkeologist)

Example, are you hot or cold: "¡Que hijueputa frío!" Or are you referring to someone who is stubborn or has made a bad impression on you: "No sea tan hijueputa conmigo"or the one most used by the inhabitants of Medellín to exaggerate:"Haceme el hijueputa favor"

14. Marica: Although for other cultures the term faggot can be an offense and have a derogatory meaning, in Medellín the word remained rooted in Paisa slang and in most cases does not have discriminatory or hurtful connotations. It is another way to refer to someone as a partner or a friend.

Example, you need to be reminded of the name of the friend you were introduced to at the party:“Vení, ¿Cómo es que se llama este marica?” or also used to refer to someone clueless: "Tan marica"

Alcolirykoz - Aranjuez mural

And so we conclude our journey through the fascinating world of the Paisa language!

I hope this tour has created a new perspective on how words can be a reflection of the culture, history, and spirit of a region. By knowing and using these expressions, you not only immerse yourself in the language, but you also connect with the very essence of Paisa life.

I invite you to continue exploring and learning more about the nuances of the Paisa language and how it influences the way Paisas communicate and live their daily lives. Feel free to share your own experiences and favorite Paisa terms in the comments!

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Thank you for reading this linguistic blog. Until next time and may you continue enjoying the rich vocabulary and warmth of Paisa culture!

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