7 essential local expressions to learn before traveling to Medellin: Talk as a Paisa

One of the first cultural shocks that we usually have when traveling for the first time is language. In the magical city of Medellin, located in the province of Antioquia, the locals are known as Paisas. You will be amazed by them because although they're a little proud, they'll always welcome you with a smile.

Within this sub-culture you will find entrepreneurs, friendly and family oriented people, who are eager to let their visitors know about the wonders that the City of Eternal Spring has to offer.

Today we will teach you 7 typical expressions used in Medellin and when to use it. Some of them may not make sense when translated literally, but don't worry, once you put these expressions into practice you will feel like a Paisa!

1. Parce

One of the most used words in Medellín is Parce, which is the short version of Parcero (men) and Parcera (women). It means ''buddy'' or ''partner'', and you can use to address someone whether it is a friend or not. For example: - hey parcero, what time is it? - Parce, it's 9 o'clock.

2. Chimba (uy, qué chimba)

Its real meaning is an allusion to the vagina, but in general it refers to something extremely good.

Examples:

• Medellín is a chimba! - Medellín is amazing.

• Uy, qué chimba that car! - that car is so cool.

3. Pues

This filler word does not have a specific meaning, so it's used by the people in almost every context. If you're talking with a Paisa, you'll hear at least one pues. In order to sound good, you must place it in the right spot. I know it can be complicated, but don't stop trying!

Examples:

• Vea pues, who showed up! - to indicate someone just appear.

• Pues sí, why not? - Agree to something.

• Qué hubo, pues? - To greet someone.

4. Berraco

It can either refer to an outstanding and courageous person, or to someone who is very upset. Also, to emphasize one thing that's very strong. For example:

• Qué calor tan berraco! - It's so hot today.

• She is a berraca. - She is a warrior.

5. Eh, avemaría!

Nearly every sentence uttered by Paisas begins with this expression when they want to emphasize something they're about to say. It can be combined with pues. For example:

• Eh, avemaría, what a beautiful view!

• Eh, avemaría pues, what are you so late?

6. Sizas

This means ''yes'' and it's pretty easy to use. For example: Hey, do you wanna go to the party? - Sizas, parce.

7. Mamar gallo

This expression liteally means ''eating cock'', but it's not used in this way. Usually, this means ''to kid around'' or ''to make friendly jokes''. For example, ''don't take it too seriously, I'm mamando gallo''. However, it is also used when you chill out with your friends and let the time pass with small talk. - We want to spend the whole day mamando gallo. Did you get it? Let's practice!

You may be a little confused at first, but once you immerse yourself in the Paisa culture it will be easier to put all these expressions into practice. Don't miss the second part of this post with many more local expressions, it's going to be a chimba, parce!

Written by Kelly Gil