Spanish is full of vibrant regional slang, especially when it comes to expressing your preferences. While “me gusta” and “no me gusta” will always get the job done, why not sound more like a local? Let’s dive into some colorful ways to say what you like and dislike across different Spanish-speaking countries.
Spain: “Me mola”
In Spain, especially among the younger crowd, “me mola” is the way to go when you really dig something.
- Meaning: “I dig it” or “I really like it”
- Usage: It’s way more informal and enthusiastic than “me gusta”
Examples:
- “Me mola tu nuevo peinado.” (I dig your new hairstyle.)
- “Esta canción me mola mucho.” (I really dig this song.)
- “No me mola nada la idea de trabajar el fin de semana.” (I don’t dig the idea of working on the weekend at all.)
Bonus Slang:
- “Mola mazo” – It’s really cool (very informal, used in Madrid)
- “Qué guay” – How cool
Mexico: “Me late”
In Mexico, “me late” is a common way to say you’re into something or someone.
- Meaning: “I’m into it” or “I have a good feeling about it”
- Usage: You can use it for things, ideas, or even people
Examples:
- “Me late esa chica.” (I’m into that girl.)
- “No me late la idea de ir al cine hoy.” (I’m not feeling the idea of going to the movies today.)
- “¿Qué tal si vamos a la playa? – ¡Me late!” (How about we go to the beach? – I’m into it!)
Other Mexican Goodies:
- “Está padre” – It’s cool
- “Qué chido” – How cool
Argentina: “Me copa”
Argentinians express their enthusiasm with “me copa.”
- Meaning: “I’m into it” or “I love it”
- Usage: It’s a step up from “me gusta” in terms of excitement
Examples:
- “Me copa tu idea para la fiesta.” (I’m really into your idea for the party.)
- “Esta película me copa.” (I’m loving this movie.)
- “No me copa nada ese restaurante.” (I’m not into that restaurant at all.)
Argentinian Extras:
- “Me cabe” – I’m into it (very colloquial)
- “Qué copado” – How cool
Colombia: “Me cae bien”
In Colombia, “me cae bien” is a common way to express fondness, especially for people.
- Meaning: “I like it/him/her” or “It/He/She sits well with me”
- Usage: It’s perfect for people, but you can also use it for things or situations
Examples:
- “Tu amigo me cae muy bien.” (I really like your friend.)
- “No me cae bien ese profesor.” (I don’t like that teacher.)
- “Me cae bien la idea de viajar este verano.” (I like the idea of traveling this summer.)
Colombian Coolness:
- “Qué chimba” – How awesome (very colloquial)
- “Está bacano” – It’s cool
More Regional Gems
- Chile: “Me tinca” – I like it/I’m into it
- Venezuela: “Me parece chévere” – I think it’s cool
- Peru: “Me parece paja” – I think it’s cool (colloquial)
- Dominican Republic: “Está to’ chulo” – It’s all cool
Speak Like a Native
These regional expressions will add flair and authenticity to your Spanish. Just remember, they might not be understood everywhere. When in doubt, stick to the trusty “me gusta” and “no me gusta.”
Learning these local phrases is a great way to connect with native speakers and expand your vocabulary. But be mindful of using very informal expressions in formal settings. ¡Hasta la próxima!