When you venture to Uruguay, you’ll quickly notice that the Spanish spoken there has its own distinct flavor. Known as “Rioplatense Spanish,” it shares many similarities with Argentine Spanish but maintains unique Uruguayan characteristics that mirror the country’s culture and identity.
Essential Daily Phrases
You’ll hear these expressions frequently in Uruguay:
- “Bo” or “Che”: A versatile term of address, similar to “hey” or “dude.”
- “¿Cómo andás?”: A common way to ask “How are you doing?”
- “Ta”: A versatile expression meaning “Okay,” “Right,” or “Got it.”
- “Gurí/Gurisa”: Terms for “boy” and “girl,” respectively, originating from the Guaraní language.
- “Botija”: A uniquely Uruguayan term for “kid” or “child.”
Common Expressions
These phrases are woven into everyday conversation:
- “Estar demás”: To be awesome or excellent.
- “¡Qué divino!”: An expression of admiration, often used more frequently than in other Spanish-speaking countries.
- “Todo bien”: A standard response to “¿Cómo andás?”, meaning “All good.”
- “Dale”: A versatile term meaning “Okay,” “Sure,” or “Go ahead.”
- “Arrimate”: An invitation to come closer or join a group, reflecting Uruguayan hospitality.
Uruguayan Sayings & Idioms
These colorful expressions showcase Uruguayan creativity:
- “Ser un testigo de jeff”: To be distracted or spaced out.
- “Estar de la cabeza”: To be crazy or out of one’s mind.
- “Meter fruta”: To exaggerate or make things up.
- “Caer como peludo de regalo”: To show up uninvited or unexpectedly.
- “Estar en el horno”: To be in trouble or in a difficult situation.
Unique Voseo Usage
Uruguayans universally use the pronoun “vos” instead of “tú” for the informal “you”:
- “¿De dónde sos?”: “Where are you from?” (instead of “¿De dónde eres?”)
- “Vení acá”: “Come here” (instead of “Ven acá”)
- “¿Qué querés?”: “What do you want?” (instead of “¿Qué quieres?”)
Food-Related Terms
Uruguayan Spanish includes unique food terminology:
- “Refuerzo”: A sandwich.
- “Bizcochos”: Pastries.
- “Cortado”: Coffee with a small amount of milk.
- “Mate”: A traditional yerba mate drink, with its own vocabulary:
- “Cebar mate”: To prepare and serve mate.
- “Termo”: A thermos for mate water.
- “Bombilla”: A metal straw for mate.
Slang and Youth Language
Modern Uruguayan slang adds color to the language:
- “Estar salado”: To have bad luck.
- “Brutal”: To be amazing or awesome.
- “Boludo/a”: A term for a friend or mate, but it can be offensive if used incorrectly.
- “Pronto”: Meaning “ready” or “done,” different from its usage in other Spanish-speaking countries.
- “Boliche”: A nightclub or disco.
This collection of Uruguayan phrases, sayings, and idioms reflects the warm, direct, and unique character of Uruguayan Spanish. Each expression carries cultural significance and can help you connect more authentically with Uruguayans.