Costa Rican Spanish Words and Phrases

Talk Like a True Costa Rican Tico

If you’ve traveled to multiple Spanish-speaking countries, you’re probably aware that each had its own set of particular idioms, slang, and exclamations, and they don’t always cross borders. Costa Rica being Central America’s most popular vacation destination, here are some of the most popular words and phrases endemic to Costa Rica.

Important Spanish Phrases and Vocabulary
 
Tico: A Costa Rican man; plural (Ticos), Costa Rican people
Tica: A Costa Rican woman
Macho/Macha: A blond North American or European
Pura Vida: Literally, pure life; full of life; perfect - a popular Costa Rican greeting
Tipico: Native-style, i.e. Comida Tipica (traditional food)
Soda: A basic Costa Rican café
Dolor de Jupa: Headache
Pachanga: Party
Muy Helado: Very cold or freezing
Saludes: Greetings
Grosero: Rude
Guila: A Kid
Comedera: Food or groceries
Idiay: Hello! What’s new?
Jumo, Enjumado: Drunk
Engomado: Suffering from a hangover
Pulperia: Corner store
Salado: Too bad!
Andar de Tanda: Bar-hopping
Que Polo: How lame!
Buena Nota: Cool or all right
Que Cuentos: Yeah Right
Boca: Literally, mouth; A small appetizer
Mae: A guy
Chunche: Thing (a placeholder)

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