If you’ve decided to travel to the Canary Islands, knowing some Canarian expressions can be very helpful for getting around more naturally in this place.
That’s why, in this article, we’ll show you some of the most popular Canarian expressions so you can immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying a relaxing holiday in the Canary Islands.
What are the most well-known Canarian expressions?
From the way to refer to a bus, to expressing hunger or calling someone “silly”, there are different words and Canarian expressions used to convey different feelings, desires and surprises.
Some of the most popular Canarian expressions are the following:
1. ¡Ños!
This is one of the Canarian expressions used to communicate surprise and amazement, and it can be stretched into a long “ñooosss” to intensify the feeling, where the “s” is pronounced like an aspirated “h”.
It’s one of those Canarian phrases that shows someone’s astonishment when faced with something they love, such as seeing a beautiful place for the first time.
2. Mi niño
This is one of the Canarian expressions used to show affection and closeness, suggesting warmth in the way people address each other. Although it may seem to refer only to children or young people, it can also be used with people of any age, even the elderly.
3. Chacho
This is one of the Canarian expressions that stands out for having several uses, as it is a shortened form of the word “muchacho”. It is used as a call for attention or surprise. However, “Chacho” has other uses too, as it can be used in different contexts.
4. La guagua
This is one of the most internationally recognised Canarian expressions, meaning “bus”. You can use it, for example, when looking for a bus stop.
5. Fisco y pisco
Both “fisco” and “pisco” mean “a little”, although their use depends on the area of Gran Canaria, as “fisco” is used in the west of the island, while “pisco” is used in the east.
Knowing the meaning of this expression can be very useful when shopping, although it is colloquial.
6. Hace pelete
It is used to express that it is very cold, regardless of whether the temperature is 16º, as locals in Gran Canaria are generally used to warmer weather.
7. Tener jilorio
This is one of the Canarian expressions commonly heard in the street or when people are entering restaurants or bars, especially around lunchtime or dinner time, referring to being hungry.
8. Papear
This expression is related to “papas” or “potatoes”, one of the most typical dishes of the Canary Islands, and refers to eating.
9. ¡Fuerte Calufo!
This Canarian expression is used when there is calima, that is, a sand-laden wind coming from the nearby North African Sahara desert. It is also used to say that it is very hot.
10. !Fuerte solajero!
It is used to indicate that the day is clear, with no clouds, and it is very hot.
11. Talegazo
It means “a blow”, and is pronounced “telegaso” as the “z” is pronounced like an “s”. It is used when someone has fallen or when blows are exchanged in traditional Canarian wrestling.
12. Échale mojo
This is one of the Canarian expressions that refers to “mojo”, one of the most famous sauces in Canarian cuisine, and is used to express surprise and amazement.
13. Eres un puntal
It is used as a compliment for a person and serves as recognition of their abilities.
14. Le falta un chaparrón o le falta un agua
This is one of the funniest Canarian expressions, used to say that someone is not quite right in the head or is immature.
15. Estoy añurgado o Me añurgué
It is used to indicate that food has become stuck in your throat, although it can also refer to a lack of understanding or connection between people.
16. El choso
This expression means “house”. When you hear “se va pa’l choso”, you already know where the person is heading.
17. Arrancadilla
This is the last drink you have at a place before going home.
18. Fos
It is used to show that something literally smells very bad. In this case, the “s” is pronounced like an aspirated “h”, and the longer and more exaggerated the sound, the worse the smell.
19. Tenderete
It refers to a good party with plenty of food and drink.
20. Machango
Aunque literalmente significa muñeco, también es una de las expresiones canarias que puede emplearse con un tono descalificativo para decirle a alguien “tonto” o “payaso”.
21. Golifiar
Although it literally means a doll, it is also used in a derogatory tone to call someone “silly” or “clown”.
22. Abollado
This is one of the funniest Canarian expressions, used to say that you are very full after eating.
23. Tolete
Its literal meaning is the male reproductive organ, also used as an insult to say someone is “stupid” or “foolish”.
If you want to explore and visit the best places in Gran Canaria and still don’t have somewhere to stay, the hotels in Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura from the Lopesan Group are the ideal choice for experiencing the true luxury of feeling at home by the sea.
