10 Cubanisms to Spice Up Your Conversations

by Denise M July 19, 2024

Hey there, chicos y chicas! Ever noticed how Cuban expressions are full of life and sass? They add flavor to our conversations and a touch of that Cuban charm. Whether you're Cuban or just love the culture, here are 10 Cubanisms to spice up your daily chats.

1. Vete Pal Carajo

Translation: Go to hell.
When to Use: When you need to end a convo, Cuban style. Perfect for when someone is getting on your nerves.
Example: "No. ¡Vete pal carajo! I don’t want to hear another word about the Dolphins this season."

2. El Que Madruga…

Translation: The early bird catches the worm.
When to Use: To encourage someone to start their day early and be productive.
Example: "El que madruga, Dios lo ayuda. Get up early and get things done!"

3. Más Sabe el Diablo…

Translation: The devil knows more because he is old than because he is the devil.
When to Use: To share some wisdom from abuelita. It's about valuing experience.
Example: "Más sabe el diablo por viejo que por diablo. Listen to your elders; they know best."

4. ¡Estás Acabando!

Translation: You’re finishing!
When to Use: To celebrate someone who is killing it, doing an amazing job.
Example: "Oye Adriana, I heard about the promotion. ¡Estás acabando mija!"

5. Me Cago en Diez

Translation: I sh*t on ten.
When to Use: A colorful way to express frustration or anger.
Example: "¡Me cago en diez! Another parking ticket!"

6. Por Si Las Moscas

Translation: Just in case.
When to Use: Better safe than sorry. To prepare for what may come.
Example: "You know what? Buy twice as many pastelitos for the party, por si las moscas."

7. La Última Coca-Cola

Translation: The last Coke.
When to Use: For those who think they’re all that. Usually referred to as “la última Coca-Cola en el desierto” (the last Coke in the desert).
Example: "He got a little money and a Tesla and now se cree la última Coca-Cola."

8. Sana, Sana Culito de Rana

Translation: Heal, heal, little frog’s butt.
When to Use: Healing words from childhood to soothe someone’s pain.
Example: "Sana, sana culito de rana. If you don’t heal today, you’ll heal tomorrow."

9. Calabaza, Calabaza, Cada Uno Pa’ Su Casa

Translation: Pumpkin, pumpkin, each one to your home.
When to Use: Time to call it a night, end a party or gathering.
Example: "It’s late. Hope everyone had a good time, pero calabaza, calabaza, cada uno pa’ su casa."

10. Menea el Esqueleto

Translation: Move the skeleton.
When to Use: Get moving and dance! Or to get someone to start moving.
Example: "Niño, you’re in my seat. Menea el esqueleto y muévete pa’ ya."

How to Use Them

These Cubanisms aren’t just for fun; they’re practical too. Here’s how you can incorporate them into your everyday conversations:

Context Matters: Use these sayings in appropriate situations to add flair and humor.
Be Playful: Cubanisms often have a playful tone, so don’t be afraid to use them to lighten the mood.
Share the Culture: Teach these expressions to your friends and family. It’s a great way to share a piece of Cuban culture.

There you have it, folks! Ten Cubanisms to add a little spice to your life. Which one is your favorite? Share your go-to Cuban sayings in the comments below, and let’s keep the chisme going!