Spanish Slang and Expressions used in Costa Rica

Pura vida - Literally translates to "pure life" and is used to say hello, goodbye, thank you, or just as a general expression of positivity.

Mae - Similar to "dude" or "bro," this is a common way to address friends or acquaintances.

Tuanis - Means "cool" or "good" and is often used as a response to someone's statement or question.

¡Qué chiva! - Similar to "how cool!" or "awesome!"

Tico/Tica - Refers to a person from Costa Rica.

Brete - A job or work.

Chante - Refers to a house or a place to live.

Chuza - Gossip or rumors.

Pisto - Money or cash.

Gallo pinto - A traditional Costa Rican dish consisting of rice and beans.

Pelado/pelada - A nickname for a friend or someone you know well.

Maje - A term used to refer to someone who is a bit of a troublemaker or mischievous.

Diay - A filler word used to express surprise, agreement, or to start a conversation.

Tirar la lengua - Literally translates to "pulling the tongue" and means to tease or make fun of someone.

Tocar la puerta - Literally translates to "knocking on the door" and means to give someone a warning or tell them off.

Piche - A small amount or a little bit.

Choteado/choteada - To be disappointed or let down.

Chota - A police officer.

Maeado/maeada - To be annoyed or bothered.

Chifrijo - Another traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo.

Sodo - Means "sure" or "certain."

Birra - Beer.

Chiva - A party or a festive gathering.

Cuido - To be careful or to watch out.

Chepe - A nickname for the capital city, San José.

Vacilón/vacilar - To have fun or enjoy oneself.

Jupa - To be drunk or intoxicated.

Pasearse - To go for a walk or a stroll.

Goma - A hangover.

Pistear - To go out drinking or partying.

Pintar - To seem or appear.

Guaro - A nickname for the alcoholic beverage aguardiente.

Arrecho/arrecha - To be angry or upset.

Tirarse un taco - To tell a lie or make up a story.

Macho/macha - To be brave or courageous.

Madrear - To hit or beat someone up.

Parce - Short for "parcero," which is a Colombian slang term for friend.

Pachanga - A big celebration or party.

Pavo/pava - A person who is inexperienced or naive.

Zancudo - A mosquito.

Chuzo - A knife or a sharp object.

Pura paja - To talk nonsense or to exaggerate.

Tuani - To be fun or entertaining.

Pilas - To be alert or on the lookout.

Chupar faros - To waste time or procrastinate.