20 Phrases from Argentina for Casual and Cultural Conversations
Argentinian Spanish, or español rioplatense, is one of the most vibrant and colorful dialects of the Spanish-speaking world. It's the dominant form of Spanish spoken in Buenos Aires and surrounding regions, and it carries a distinct melody, vocabulary, and attitude that make it stand out. With Italian intonation, indigenous influences, and a strong local identity, Argentinian Spanish offers a linguistic experience like no other.
Whether you're planning a trip to Buenos Aires, exploring the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia, or just diving deep into Argentina’s rich culture, understanding the everyday expressions locals use will make your conversations smoother—and way more fun. Learning how to speak like an Argentine not only helps you fit in, but it also connects you more intimately with the people and their stories. One great way to deepen that cultural connection is by checking out 20 Argentinian Marvels, a book that beautifully captures some of the country’s most captivating features and surprises.
Here’s a deeper dive into 20 must-know phrases that’ll boost your Argentine street cred—and help you decode local conversations with ease.
1. Che
Arguably the most iconic Argentinian word, che is more than just a way to get someone’s attention—it’s a cultural marker. Used like “hey” or “dude,” che can be inserted into almost any sentence.
Example: Che, ¿me ayudás con esto? (Hey, can you help me with this?)
Origins: Its etymology is uncertain, but some believe it may derive from indigenous Guaraní or Mapuche expressions used to call someone’s attention.
Usage Tip: Use it with friends, not in formal situations.
2. ¿Viste?
Literally meaning “Did you see?”, this phrase is commonly used at the end of a sentence, functioning like a rhetorical question or a way to seek agreement.
Example: La peli estuvo genial, ¿viste? (The movie was great, you know?)
Why it matters: It turns statements into inclusive conversations, a signature trait of Argentinian discourse.
3. Boludo/a
This word walks a fine line between insult and affection. Among close friends, it's used playfully, similar to “dude” or “mate.” But with the wrong tone, it becomes a strong insult meaning “idiot” or “fool.”
Example (friendly): Dale, boludo, no seas así. (Come on, dude, don’t be like that.)
Example (insult): ¡Sos un boludo total! (You’re a total idiot!)
Cultural Note: Tone is everything. Argentinians masterfully convey meaning through inflection.
4. Dale
This versatile term translates to “Come on,” “Okay,” or even “Let’s do it.” It expresses agreement or encouragement and is used all the time.
Example: ¿Vamos a tomar algo? — Dale. (Want to grab a drink? — Sure.)
Tip: The more drawn out—daaaale—the more emphasis.
5. Re
Short for recontra or requeté, re is used as an intensifier, the way English speakers use “super” or “really.”
Example: Estoy re feliz. (I’m really happy.)
Fun Fact: You can stack it: re, re, re bueno means super, super, super good.
6. Laburo
Derived from the Italian lavoro, meaning "work," laburo is the informal Argentinian word for job or labor.
Example: Conseguí un laburo nuevo. (I got a new job.)
Insight: This term reflects Argentina’s strong Italian heritage, especially in Buenos Aires.
7. Quilombo
Originally a term for communities formed by escaped slaves in Brazil, in Argentina, quilombo evolved to mean “mess” or “chaotic situation.”
Example: El tránsito es un quilombo hoy. (Traffic is a mess today.
Colloquial Edge: It can also refer to personal or emotional chaos.
8. Posta
Used to emphasize truth or sincerity, posta is like saying “seriously” or “no joke.”
Example: Posta, te digo la verdad. (Seriously, I’m telling you the truth.)
Etymology: Originally meant a relay station or courier stop, implying something reliable.
9. Guita
This is the go-to slang term for money. Like “cash” or “dough” in English, it’s informal but essential.
Example: No tengo guita, estoy seco. (I have no money, I’m broke.)
Synonyms: Plata is also widely used.
10. Chamuyar
A uniquely Argentine verb that means to sweet-talk, flatter, or BS your way through a conversation—especially in romantic contexts.
Example: Lo vi chamuyando a una chica en el bar. (I saw him sweet-talking a girl at the bar.)
Verb Forms: Chamuyo (noun), chamuyero/a (person who smooth-talks).
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11. Morfar
A playful and informal way to say “eat,” similar to “grab a bite” in English.
Example: Vamos a morfar una pizza. (Let’s go eat some pizza.)
Root: From the Lunfardo dialect, which originated in Buenos Aires prisons and slums.
12. ¡Qué bajón!
This expression captures disappointment or bad luck, similar to “what a drag” or “that sucks.”
Example: Me echaron del trabajo, ¡qué bajón! (I got fired, what a bummer!)
Tone Matters: Often said with a sigh or dramatic pause.
13. Hacer una vaquita
Refers to pooling money together for a shared goal—common in social outings.
Example: Hicimos una vaquita para comprarle un regalo. (We all chipped in to buy a gift.)
Why it’s loved: Reflects Argentina’s collective, community-oriented mindset.
14. Ser un/a crack
An homage to sports slang, especially in football. A crack is someone truly exceptional at what they do.
Example: Esa chef es una crack en la cocina. (That chef is amazing in the kitchen.)
Wider Usage: Applies far beyond sports—used for anyone who excels.
15. Andá a saber
Literally, “Go figure” or “Who knows?” This phrase communicates mystery or uncertainty.
Example: Andá a saber por qué no vino. (Who knows why she didn’t come?)
Common Pairing: Often said with a shrug or raised eyebrow.
16. Tener fiaca
Fiaca refers to laziness, a lack of motivation to do anything. If you “have fiaca,” you’re just not feeling up to it.
Example: Hoy tengo una fiaca tremenda. (I’m feeling super lazy today.)
Contextual Clue: Used when skipping responsibilities or relaxing.
17. Mandar fruta
To “throw fruit” might sound odd, but here it means talking nonsense, guessing, or improvising wildly.
Example: Cuando no sabe, manda fruta. (When he doesn’t know, he just makes stuff up.)
Warning: It’s not necessarily a lie, just unverified rambling.
18. Copado/a
Describes something or someone cool, fun, or chill.
Example: Tu amigo es re copado. (Your friend is super cool.)
Bonus: Also used to describe places or events—La fiesta estuvo copada.
19. Ni en pedo
One of the most emphatic ways to say “Absolutely not!” Literally “Not even drunk,” implying that even under the influence, you'd still say no.
Example: ¿Te vas a tirar en paracaídas? — ¡Ni en pedo! (Are you going skydiving? — No way!)
Caution: Very informal—don’t use in polite settings.
20. Aguante...
A cheer of support, this word is used to express devotion or solidarity with someone or something.
Example: ¡Aguante el mate y la buena onda! (Long live mate and good vibes!)
Cultural Impact: Common at concerts, protests, and football matches.
Why Learning Regional Spanish is Important
Learning a language goes far beyond grammar and vocabulary—it’s about understanding the culture, humor, and rhythm of how people really speak. By familiarizing yourself with these expressions, you not only avoid sounding like a tourist, but you also gain deeper access to the Argentine way of life: passionate, expressive, and full of personality.
From city slang to rural idioms, the Argentinian dialect is a colorful reflection of the country's identity. To explore more of Argentina’s cultural gems—its food, history, and hidden wonders—don’t miss the beautifully illustrated book 20 Argentinian Marvels. It’s an ideal companion for anyone eager to see Argentina from the inside out.
Wrap-Up: Speak Like an Argentinian
Argentinian Spanish is rich in expressions that make conversations more fun and engaging. By learning these 20 phrases, you'll be able to communicate more naturally with native speakers. Want to go further? Get your copy of 20 Argentinian Marvels today!