Panama’s unique Spanish dialect reflects its vibrant culture and history. When you explore Panamanian phrases, sayings & idioms, you’ll discover a colorful world of expression that sets this variety of Spanish apart from its neighbors.
Essential Greetings and Daily Expressions
- ¿Qué xopá? – A casual greeting meaning “what’s up?”
- Mopri – A friendly term for “friend” or “buddy.”
- Al chingazo – Means “right away” or “immediately.”
- Chuzo – An expression of surprise, similar to “wow.”
- Chuleta – Another way to express surprise or dismay.
- ¿Qué es la que hay? – A common question meaning “what’s going on?” or “what’s new?”
Popular Sayings That Capture Panamanian Life
- Más largo que un día sin pan – This saying means “longer than a day without bread,” used to describe something that takes forever.
- Estar en tuco – This means “to be in trouble” or “to be in a jam.”
- No seas salamanquino – A unique Panamanian saying that means “don’t be deceitful.”
- Habla como la gente – This phrase means “speak properly,” often used when someone is mumbling.
- El que tiene padrino se bautiza – Similar to the English saying “it’s not what you know, but who you know.”
Colorful Descriptions and Metaphors
- Está que raja – This means something is “awesome” or “excellent.”
- Ponerse las pilas – To “get energized” or “motivated.”
- Meter la pata – To “make a mistake.”
- De a boca – Means “free” or “without cost.”
- Estar de chicha y limonada – To be “in a great mood.”
Weather and Time-Related Expressions
- Está cayendo un palo de agua – Means “it’s raining very hard.”
- Hacer sol de lluvia – This refers to a situation where it’s raining while the sun is shining.
- A la hora del huevo – Means “very early in the morning.”
- En tiempo de ñaupa – Means “a long time ago.”
Social Situations and Emotions
- Estar en la quinta paila – This means “to be in a terrible situation.”
- Dar una esquina – To “avoid someone or something.”
- Estar pelao – To be “broke.”
- Estar arrecho – To be “angry” or “upset.”
- Tener goma – To “have a hangover.”
Food-Related Expressions
- Estar como agua para chocolate – This means “to be furious.”
- Vale un ñame – This means “it’s worthless.”
- Más caro que un hijo bobo – This means “very expensive.”
Modern Panamanian Slang
- Fresh – Means “cool” or “nice.”
- Yeye – Refers to someone who’s “fancy” or “high-class.”
- Chantin – Means “house” or “home.”
- Parking – A term for a “party” or “gathering.”
- Flow – Refers to “style” or “swagger.”
Remember that these expressions can vary by region and context within Panama. The beauty of Panamanian Spanish lies in its creativity and the way it blends traditional Spanish with local culture and modern influences. By using these phrases, you can connect with Panamanians on a deeper level and show appreciation for their unique linguistic heritage.