Worst bad word in spanish

Ever wondered how to swear in Spanish? Here in this article, you’ll learn some Spanish curse words that are definitely offensive. So remember to use sparingly and only when needed!

Get the list in PDF (+ FREE audio!)

A quick word of caution before we proceed: if you’re one who easily gets offended OR IF YOU ARE A MINOR, stay away because there are some vulgar terms up ahead. Some of the words (okay, most of the words) in the list can be quite offensive to some, and this whole article starting from this point contains explicit language.

But if you’re not easily offended, go right ahead and check out the list of Spanish curse words.

I. A Few Reminders

Now, without further talk, check out below the list of Spanish swear words and phrases. First, you’ll see the simpler ones, but scroll down until the end. It’s where the more expressive vulgarities can be found.

II. Spanish Curse Words with English Translations

III. Level 2 Spanish Cursing

32. Que te jodan. It is used in Spain as something similar to ‘fuck you’.

33. Me cago en… is also used in Spain. It means «I shit on…»

For example:

And the one that tops it all:

IV. Conclusion

Phew. That was quite a list, wasn’t it? The Spanish sure know how to say a curse word or two. 

Once again, you can download the list in PDF format + the MP3 by signing up below. 

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They say that you don’t completely master a language until you know the “bad” words in that language….actually, I’m not sure if they say that, but either way, we’ve gathered the very best (worst) list of curse words in Spanish to learn (or not), listed depending on which country you are in.

As with English, the meaning of Spanish curse words will vary, depending on the context in which they are used.

Sometimes these words are used as a straight-up insult, while other times they’re used in a casual manner when speaking with friends (aka. banter).

Of course, they can also be used out of habit e.g when you stub your toe (“Motherf***ker!”).

Once you know the most common curse words in Spanish, you’ll be able to add a little more colour to your conversations, and probably make your native speaking friends laugh in the process.

So, what are some Spanish curse words?

Before we go into that, I should say:

WARNING: This post is not for the faint-hearted, so if you are easily offended, please stop reading right now. While we do not endorse using any of the following explicit language, you’ll find that these words are commonly used in Spain & Latin America.

Now that we have that parental advisory message over with, let’s learn how to curse in Spanish.

Just as the slang used in your country isn’t applicable to all English speaking countries, specific Spanish curse words may carry a different meaning depending on which part of the Spanish-speaking world you are in.

Even when we talk about “profanity”, there are many different ways to express this word.

“Palabras sucias” is probably the most globally recognized one, but where’s the fun in asking someone to teach you the “dirty words”.

So if you want to learn the best curse words, you should ask someone to teach you:

Tacos (Spain)

Groserias, majaderías, or maldiciones (Mexico).

Bardeos (Argentina)

Garabatos (Chile)

Puteadas (Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay, referring more directly to insults.)

Desvergüenzas (El Salvador; better translated as a shameless remark.)

Plebedades

Palabras toscas (the Colombian Caribbean.)

Lisuras (Peru; refers more to rude or cheeky remarks.)

Once you ask someone to teach you palabras sucias, what you hear may depend on the country you’re in.

There are a ton of curse words used exclusively in some countries or regions, that when used outside of those places won’t make any sense.

Spain

Capullo: Asshole, jerk.

Cojones: Refers directly to the testicles.

La hostia: Means “the host”, but is used as “shit” or “holy shit”, or used as “Hostia puta” to say “Holy fuck”

Follar: To fuck

Gilipollas: Bastard, shithead.

Que te jodan: Similar to ‘fuck you’.

Tonto del culo:  “An idiot of the ass” or as we’d say in English, dumbass

Mexico

Huevos: Meaning eggs, yes, but also testicles in Mexico and most of South America as well.

Pendejo: Direct translation is “pubic hair” , but in Mexico it means “dumbass”, “asshole”, or “imbecile” and is widely used as an insult, or in a friendly manner amongst friends.

Pinche: The Mexican equivalent of “fucking” used in front of anything else to intensify its meaning. “pinche pendejo” (fucking asshole) being the most popular pairing.

Un putero: Used to express “A fucking ton of”.

Joto: Sissy, gay

Chingar: To fuck

Chingados: This one is tough to translate, commonly used as “¿Qué chingados?”, that could mean something similar to “What the fuck?”.

Argentina

Bolacear: To bullshit.

Forro: Asshole. The usage as an insult is only confined to Argentina. However, it has a whole range of other meanings when used in other parts of South America.

Boludo: Lazy, dumb, slow.

Pelotudo: Can also mean Lazy, dumb, slow.

Malparido: Literally meaning “Poorly given birth to”, is one of the most insulting words to call someone. You can find this one across South America, but it’s most common in Argentina.

Cabeza de pija: Dickhead.

Petero: Cocksucker.

Chupapijas: A 2nd way to say cocksucker (variety is the spice of life).

Concha: Equivalent of “Cunt” or “Pussy” used in the southern region of South America, while meaning only “Shell” or “Peel” in its northern part.

Tragaleche: Cum swallower.

Reverendo: Meaning “Reverend” when translated literally, but used in Argentina to intensify the meaning of the following noun (similar to “fucking”). For example, “reverendo hijo de las mil putas” ( fucking son of a thousand whores) is a popular term when confronted with extreme frustration.

You missed your fight?

“Reverendo hijo de las mil putas”

Argentina is a country where many words carry double meanings, so much so that even native Spanish speakers can be caught off guard. In Colombia, for instance, you can “coger un taxi” (grab a taxi) but in Argentina that means you’re going to have sex with a taxi.

Colombia

Hijueputa: Colombian version of “Hijo de Puta”, meaning son of a bitch.

Doble hijueputa: Double son of a bitch.

Triple hijueputa: You’re not once, not twice, but three times a son of bitch.

Gonorrea: Means “gonorrhea”, but used to refer to someone or something extremely unlikeable. This is an extremely strong thing to say, so don’t use it lightly.

Arrecho: A person who is horny.

Cuca, Chocha, Chucha, Panocha: All vulgar words for vagina similar to “Cunt”.

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CUCA.mp3


https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/PANOCHA.mp3

Culicagado: “Crapped ass”, this word is used to talk, with contempt, about a young person or teenager, because they haven’t grown up enough. A close English equivalent would be a spoiled brat.

Pirobo: This curse has a lot of different meanings. Originally, It’s definition was a person who came from a rich family but nowadays it’s just a standard insult and when is used in a friendly conversation can mean friend or dude.

Careverga or Carechimba: “Dickface.” This is pretty straightforward.

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CAREVERGA.mp3
https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CARECHIMBA.mp3

Gueva: Similar to how “Pendejo” is used in Mexico, it is used to call someone an asshole or stupid

Qué Gueva:  how stupid.

Guevon: Literally, a guy with big balls, but used like “bro”.

Palabras Sucias (Recognized almost anywhere)

Idiota: Idiot, Dumbass, jerk, jackass.

Estúpido: Stupid, douchebag.

Hijo de puta: Son of a bitch, motherfucker.

Mierda: Shit, crap, bullshit.

Imbécil: Imbecile, dickhead, jerk, moron.

Hijo de perra: Son of a bitch.

Coger, Tirar: Translates as “picking up” and “throwing”, but in the wrong context, means “to fuck”.

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/COGER.mp3
https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/TIRAR.mp3

Joder: Fuck (as the single word expression).

Carajo: Fuck (both as the expression and noun); damn it.

Cabrón Bastard, asshat, dick (As popular in Europe as it is in South America).

Puta madre: Whore mother, motherfucker, fucking great (both bad and good, depending on the context).

Puta: Whore.

Apestar: To suck at something.

Bastardo: Bastard.

Pajero: Jerk.

Vete al demonio: Go to Hell.

Móngolo: Retard.

Zorra: Bitch, whore.

Perra: Bitch, whore.

Marica: Sissy, pussy – can be used between male friends.

Maricón: Sissy, pussy, gay – the more offensive version of Marica (massively offensive slur for the gay community).

Marico: Similar to the previous one, it can be used as an insult when describing someone who is homosexual, or when used with friends, can mean something as inoffensive as buddy or dude. The Central and South America equivalent to “pendejo” in Mexico.

Mamón: Sucker, prick.

Maldito: Damn, darn (this is the “polite” version of hijo de puta).

Coño: Cunt, fuck, damn (Usable in both South America and Spain, but way more offensive in the latter).

Verga: Cock, dick. In South America it’s almost as widely used as “fuck” would be.

Bicho, Pija, Huevo:  Also meaning “cock” or “dick” in most of Central and South America, with “bicho” being capable of meaning a mere bug or slang for child. Once again, the meaning will depend on the context and intention.

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/BICHO.mp3

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/HUEVO.mp3

Huevos: Seeing them in plural could mean just several dicks, or it could be referring to the testicles as well.

Corneta, Pico, Pito: When in Chile and Argentina, these will mean cock as well.

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CORNETA.mp3

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/PITO.mp3

Mamahuevo or Chupapijas: Cocksucker, the latter being used mostly in Spain, also seen as mamabicho, mamawebo, chupavergas and everything in between when in most of South America.

https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/MAMAHUEVO.mp3
https://baselang.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/CHUPAPIJAS.mp3

Culo: Ass.

Tarado: Moron, dumbass.

Lame botas: Boot licker (literally), ass kisser.

Huevón: Lazy, dumb, slow (seen as weon, boludo and pelotudo in Chile and Argentina).

Que te den: Up yours.

Me cago en: Used mostly in Spain. It means “I shit on…”. As you can imagine, people get creative with this one.

Funny Spanish Phrases

While it’s good to have a collection of curse words in your Spanish repertoire, we recommend some go-to phrases that will roll off the tongue when the time is right.

Like curse words, you’ll notice that many Spanish phrases can be adapted to both casual and serious scenarios.

Ni de coña: Not a curse word per se, but equally not something you should use in a formal conversation. This phrase is used to say “not a fucking chance”, while “coña” can be used on its own as a casual way to say  “joke”.

Pollas en vinagre (Spain): Directly translates as “dicks in vinegar”, this expression is used in a dismissive manner, similar to ni de coña.

For example,

Your boss: ¿Puedes trabajar hasta tarde hoy? (can you work late today?).

You: Pollas en vinagre (dicks in vinegar).

Me cago en todo lo que se menea (Spain): Used when you are being extremely upset about something. Translates as “I shit on everything that moves”.

Hijo de la grandísima puta: If you’re not content with using Hijo de puta (son of a bitch), then this upgrade translates as “son of THE great whore”. A fantastic way to insult someone, but definitely not fantastic.

Que te folle un pez (Spain): Translates as “Get fucked by a fish”, which does not sound like a pleasant afternoon.

Me chupa un huevo (Argentina, Uruguay): Translates as “It sucks me an egg” which is a weird way to say “I don’t give a fuck”.

La concha de la lora (Argentina, Uruguay): This expression is quite old and translates as “The parrot’s pussy”. Using “lora” on its own can mean a foreign prostitute.

This phrase is usable in a couple of situations, from expressing anger/frustration and screaming it into the air, to referring to something that is very far away. For example: If you get a flat tire on your way to work, all you can do is say “¡La concha de la lora!”.

Or if want to say “My grandparents live really fucking far away”, then you would say “Mis abuelos viven por allá en la concha de la lora”.

La re-puta que te parió: The re-whore of your mother (extra whore, if you will). Used for giving an insult back, or even delivering the first insult.

Anda a cagar: Translates as “Go take a shit”, or the English equivalent of “Get lost”.

Me cago en tu madre: Literally translates as “I shit on your mother”. Spanish insults really like to go directly for your mom, huh.

And that is a wrap.

Feel free to comment below if we forgot any insults that you think should be included.

As we said before, exercise caution when you use these words.

The context, tone, and person you use these words with will determine the severity of the insult.

It’s probably best to experiment by first using these words with amigos.

Every country has its set of vulgar language phrases, and you will encounter them in daily life. The Spanish language has a rich vocabulary of cursing phrases and swear words, and incorporating them into your casual conversations with friends can make your chats more lively and creative.

In this article, we will share with you bad words in Spanish, mainly swear words and curses. However, we would wish to caution that if you are easily offended by vulgar terms or you are a minor; then you better stay away from this post. Some of the words here – in fact, most of them – can be offensive to some people. This whole article, starting from this point, has explicit language.

For those of you who are not easily offended by vulgar terms, keep reading to learn some Spanish swear words.

Before we narrow down to this list of curse words in Spanish language, here are a few reminders;

• It is essential to learn the words and understand where you can use them appropriately; however, use them sparingly. Otherwise, you would be in for trouble if you use them in the wrong settings.
• Just like anywhere in the world, cursing can be very insulting and offensive. However, when you use these words in your casual talks with friends, it can be fine and make your conversation funnier.
• Learning about how Spanish people curse, can give you a peek into their minds and give you insights about what they find offensive.

With that in mind, lets now get into the real business of the day;

Table of Contents

• Here are the 30 most common bad words in Spanish!
• Spanish Swear Words and Phrases
• Spanish Curse Words and Phrases
• Spanish Insults
• Spanish Rude Phrases

Here are the 30 most common bad words in Spanish!

If you ever wondered how to say “Fuck you” in Spanish, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our list of the most common Spanish cuss words, swear words and rude phrases.

Spanish Swear Words and Phrases

1. Fuck!
   Spanish Translation: Joder!
   This is the adost common curse word, and you will hear it most of the time when people are holding casual talks. Joder literally translates to “fuck!” Here is an example of how you can use it; “I forgot to bring my joysticks, Joder!” or “Joder! I missed out on the 6 PM bus.”
   This word is part and parcel of the daily life of a Spanish. It can also be used as a phrase that equates to “Fuck You!”- “QUE te Jodan.”
2. Shit
   Spanish Translation: Mierda
   It is one of the most lightweight swear words in the Spanish language and can go with a lot of sentences as it makes a great combination with many phrases to create impact in a statement. An example of how to use it in English setting; “Man, this band is really the Mierda. Their music is dope.” Or “I loved Camila like Mierda.”
3. I Shit on Everything That Moves
   Spanish Translation: Me cago en todo que se menea!
   This is one of my best Spanish swear phrases. Although long, it packs a punch and makes an enormous impact in a sentence. It is strangely not vulgar and can be translated to mean “fuck” or “shit” in Spanish. The phrase “Me cago en…” is a commonly used cuss and can be used with everything and anything that strikes your mind.
4. Son of A Bitch
   Spanish Translation: Hijo de puta
   This phrase is used in the exact same settings as in English except that in the Spanish language it’s more common. Translated to the English swear word “son of a bitch,” Hijo de puta is mostly used to tease someone, primarily as an envious or sarcastic remark. An example in sentence form: “He just went for a world tour- Hijo de puta!” “Your brother bought a 65 inch Smart TV – Hijo de puta.”
5. Cocks in Vinegar
   Spanish Translation: Pollas en vinagre
   This is probably the most complicated Spanish cuss word to track back and is perhaps the coolest one in Spanish. It is used to express disagreement in a discussion or argument.
   It is not a commonly used swear word, but if you pull this one out in an argument or discussion, people will be impressed and pleasantly surprised.
6. Holy Fuck or The Host
   Spanish Translation: La hostia
   Yes, “holy fuck” and “the host” are two different things. The word “hostia” originates from Southern parts where it is used in communion to refer to “the host.” Since the Catholic Church dominates in Spain, incorporating this phrase in a sentence can be offensive especially to a profoundly religious person.
   However, among friends, you can use it in your conversation. It literally translates to “holy shit” or “holy fuck.”
7. Fuck Off
   Spanish Translation: Que te den
   This phrase is used to express dissatisfaction. It is used when you are pissed off by someone. It merely means “Fuck you!”
8. Fucking
   Mexican Spanish Translation: Pinche
   This is one of the most common Mexican Spanish cuss words used. It is the add-on word for almost every cuss word in Mexico. Pinche this, Pinche that.
   It offers a fun way to intensifying the meaning of your sentence and is similar to the way it is used in English.
9. Fuck You/Off
   Spanish Translation: Que te Jodan
   This is another creative way of using joder, especially when you are expressing your anger to someone in particular. Just as you use it in English, this expression can also be used in lighter mood among close friends. However, tone matters and therefore you should know precisely how and when to use it.

Spanish Curse Words and Phrases

1. What a bastard
   Spanish Translation: Qué Cabrón
   In reality, a “cabron” is a big male goat that has giant horns. There is an old Spanish saying that says, a man with a cheating wife is called a “cabron.” This is to mean; his horns are growing. This was the origin of the phrase “Qué Cabrón” – what a bastard! In Spanish setting, the phrase is often used to swear at others and is quite a mild cuss. It is often used in a sarcastic way instead of a real curse.
2. Bullshit!
   Spanish Translation: Los Cojones
   The Spanish men, popularly known as “machotes”- macho men who take pride in their balls, love to show their manliness by adding the word “cojones” to their sentences. This phrase tends to equate to English word “Bullshit” and is used as a reply to someone who is trying to give crappy excuses. To reply to something that is pissing you off, you just say “Los cojones.” Remember in Spanish language “j” is pronounced as “hh” so you would respond by saying “los co-hho-nehs.”
3. Fucking Good
   Spanish Translation: Puta madre
   This phrase can be used to curse and also used in a positive way. In a positive way, the expression can be used to describe how great something is. For instance, “The party was Puta madre.” It can also be used to express delight. For instance, “Real Madrid won the El-Clasico match! De puta madre!”
4. Motherfucker
   Spanish Translation: La madre que te parió
   This is a frequently used curse by Spaniards. In fact, according to “City Life Madrid” it is in the Top 3 of Spanish cuss words, and literally translates to mean “the mother who gave birth to you.” It is used in the same way the English cuss words “motherfucker” or “son of a bitch” are used. An example of its usage in English would be, “The guy is a la madre que te parió! He took nine shots of Tequila without blinking.”
5. Real Dumb Idiot
   Spanish Translation: Tonto del culo
   This is a slightly milder curse and translates to “a complete idiot.” Tonto is a stupid person. A tonto del pueblo is the village idiot. Culo is a bum. So “tonto del culo” is similar to “thick as shit.” It is used when you want to show how stupid or silly someone can be. The phrase can go with almost any occasion.
6. A fucking lot of
   Spanish Translation: Un putero
   This is used to exaggerate or accentuate something you are trying to explain. An example, “The party had un putero people.”
7. Don’t Fuck With Me
   Spanish Translation: No me jodas
   Use it as long as you are conversant with the Spanish indicative conjugation. It is used to warn someone not to mess with you. Just like Texas! 😉
8. Stick It Up Your Ass
   Spanish Translation: Métetelo por el culo
   In Spanish, “meter” means insert. When conjugated for the second-person imperative, it becomes “métetelo.” And since you already know that culo means “rear,” the expression becomes easier to understand and use.

Spanish Insults

1. Douchebag
   Spanish Translation: Gilipollas
   The word “Gilipollas” is normally used as a retorting cuss and is frequently used to refer to bastards. When someone teases you or pisses you off, you can call him a “Gilipollas.” The word is derived from the words “gilí,” which means “stupid,” and “polla,” which translates to “cock.” It’s not as vulgar as the direct English translation.
2. Go and Get Fucked By a Fish
   Spanish Translation: Que te folle un pez
   Our list of Spanish cuss words wouldn’t be complete without this one. We are entering another deeper territory now, and this is where Spanish creativity and beauty comes into play. I mean, how do you even insult someone to this extent? You may need to practice pronouncing this phrase correctly and using it in appropriate settings. It is used in the same context as “screw you.” You can use it when you are incredibly pissed off by someone.
3. Cunt
   Spanish Translation: Coño
   This is quite offensive, and you should be cautious who you use it on as it may land you in danger. Its usage in Spain is the same as in the English language.
4. Stupid
   Spanish Translation: Pendejo
   This is a frequent word used in the Spanish language. It literally means “stupid” and has no direct reason of why it is used as a swear word.
   Typically, if used on someone, it is meant to call them a moron or imbecile. Often, friends will call each other “pendejo” for fun.
5. Jerk or Asshole
   Spanish Translation: Capullo
   This is one is used in Spain more than anywhere else. Its meaning depends on the mood of the person using it. It can also mean cheeky, imbecile, daft, or merely annoying. When not used as an insult, capullo refers to a flower bud. — Really? What is the connection between a flower bud and a jerk? Well, whatever the similarities are, “capullo” is, in fact, a curse word. And so it clearly qualifies for our list of bad words in Spanish.
6. Ass-face
   Spanish Translation: Cara de culo
   Wouldn’t it be fun to call someone an ass-face? Spanish has a creative way of doing that. The phrase is impactful and really powerful. In Spanish, “cara” means face, and – as we already established – “culo” is rear. So when you put the two together, you get a cursing word. No rocket science here. But a nice, figurative cuss word.
7. Such an Ass
   Spanish Translation: Tonto del culo
   Since you are already familiar with what culo means, this shouldn’t be hard to comprehend. It is used to express disappointment or to look down on someone. For instance, “She is Tonto del culo if she failed you on your first date.”
8. Don’t Be A Dick
   Spanish Translation: No seas gilipollas
   Gilipollas is a colorful piece of vulgarity in the Spanish language. Depending on where and how it is used, it could mean asshole, jerk, and everything in between. Ser translates to “to be.” Although this sounds like a cool Spanish curse phrase, I would strongly advise you not to use it on someone you are not super-close to.
9. Slut
   Spanish Translation: Zorra
   Originally used to refer to a female fox, this word is commonly used to refer to a not-so-chase woman in Spain. Similar to the English word “bitch,” which means “female dog” as well as “prostitute.”
10. Whore
    Spanish Translation: Puta
    Puta is the single most commonly used slang for a prostitute in Spain. You can pair it with “madre, ” and you have the phrase “puta madre” which translates to a son of a bitch. It is a super-common word used in various connotations ranging from extremely disparaging to jovial settings.
11. Cocksucker
    Spanish Translation: Mamahuevo
    Be sure that you are not around the person you are calling this name as it is one of the insults that could hurt anyone. And, as a consequence, you could end up being hurt as well. In a physical sense.

Spanish Rude Phrases

1. Go Shit
   Spanish Translation: Anda a Cagar
   There is no direct translation in English, but it basically means “go away” or “get lost.” It is usually used to express frustration or used in an angry way.
2. Suck My Cock
   Spanish Translation: Chúpame la pija
   “Pija” is slang for the male genitalia while chupar means to suck. You can also replace “chúpame” in this phrase with “mamame,” and your insult would still be intact because “mamar” is synonymous with chupar. Another synonym you could also try is “verga,” in place of “pija” (they both mean penis).
3. Eat Shit and Die
   Spanish Translation: Come mierda y muere
   This is a common phrase in Spain. “Comer” means to eat, “mierda” translates to shit, and “morir” means to die. When putting them together, they make an impactful insulting phrase.
4. Go to Hell
   Spanish Translation: Vete al Infierno
   “Infierno” already sounds like hell, and this makes the phrase straightforward. A more popular alternative to this phrase is “Mierda” (shit).

There you have them; more than 30 wicked bad words in Spanish. Ensure that you use them in a casual setting when hanging out with your close friends to avoid getting a backlash.

Do you think we have left out any other common Spanish cuss words used by Spaniards, Latin Americans or South Americans? Well, share them with us in the comment section and tell us what they mean.

¡Gracias y hasta luego!

Surely the most fun part of picking up a new language is learning how to curse in it. Until you can swear like a native speaker, you’re not fluent.

If you’re only at the start of your Spanish learning journey we highly recommend you check out our awesome guide on the best way to learn Spanish. There you will find the best tips on how to learn this beautiful language.

Now let’s get to the good stuff and discover all the Spanish curse words that you really need in your life.

Related: Curse Words in the French Language: Using French Swear Words Like a Pro

Spanish is a fine language to swear in.

There’s not much that’s more satisfying than yelling some VERY bad words at the table you just stubbed your toe on, and doing so in Spanish is even better, due to the expressiveness of the language.

Joder

If we’re going to learn Spanish swear words then this one’s vital: it’s the Spanish version of the F-bomb. It doesn’t carry quite the same shock value, though.

It’s probably still best not to start shouting it in the streets unless you’ve got a seriously good reason.

Gilipollas

One of the most common curse words in Spanish is ‘gilipollas’ which translates as idiot or jerk. Try it out on the idiot in your life with the phrase, ‘no seas gilipollas’ which in English is along the lines of ‘don’t be a dumbass.’ Cute.

Mierda

Of all curse words in Spanish, this is likely to be one of the most useful in daily life. Bring this into play when you’ve banged your head on a low beam, have overcooked your dinner, or just witnessed your team missing a penalty.

‘Mierda’ translates as ‘crap’ or ‘sh*t’. In the literal or the, you know, how totally annoying sense.

If you want to practice your pronunciation of this particular curse word, the popular Spanish tv series, ‘14 de Abril, La Republica’ — available on the Lingopie language learning platform — is a great place to start.

It’s a cracking drama focused on the life of a wealthy family living in Madrid during the Second Republic. As well as being an excellent source of Spanish curse words, it’s a sweeping love story, too, so tissues at the ready.

Qué Cabrón

Many swear words in Spanish, when translated into English, aren’t an exact equivalent, although the sense in which they’re used might be the same. Like this one.

‘Qué cabrón’ means, literally, ‘what a big male goat’. But it’s used in the way we would say, ‘what a bastard!’ This particular curse is rarely used as an angry insult, but most often in friendly bants.

La Concha de tu Madre

Looking to say bad words in Spanish with meaning? Then this is the invective for you. It translates as ‘motherf*cker’ and definitely should NOT be used in friendly bants.

Puto

Use this as a great all-rounder of an insult.

It’s the equivalent of both ‘asshole’ and ‘f*cking’ and has a variety of amusing applications.

To learn how to use it as an authentic Spanish speaker would watch ‘Bajo le Red’ on Lingopie. The characters are very fond of it, which makes for a great educational opportunity.

The program is about a sinister figure who wreaks digital havoc by setting up a system of ‘favors’ online — intriguing and dark, ‘Bajo le Red’ offers much more than just an opportunity to pick up some colorful language. Although it’s great for this, too.

Why is Spanish Such a Satisfying Language to Curse In?

Many people describe Spanish as almost a ‘sung’ language due to the nature of its intonation and flow.

The language’s pronunciation, too, helps, and its consistency in this regard is one of the things that makes it widely regarded as the easiest language to learn. The creative elements of the vocabulary also make cursing immensely satisfying in Spanish.

Cursing plays a significant role in conversations between folks of all ages in Spanish-speaking countries, and many of the swear words and phrases don’t carry the weight they do in English. That said: it’s still worth approaching with caution in order not to risk offense or inadvertently inducing raucous laughter.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that some Spanish curse words and phrases have a stronger, or more shocking, meaning in different countries.

For example, what might be considered a mild curse word in Spain itself could be regarded as a much more offensive word in Peru.

Regional Curse Words

For the true aficionado of cursing in Spanish, the below words and phrases are highly localized:

Verga — Mexican

This is a useful swear word to add spice to your Mexican conversations. It means ‘f*ck’ although it can be brought into play to mean ‘awesome.’

Culiao — Chilean

A nifty little curse, this translates as something like ‘dumbass’ or ‘idiot.’ It’s widely used in Chile but not heard so much in other Spanish-speaking countries; confusingly, Chileans also use this word to refer to a very close friend…

Chapiodora — Dominican

This translates as ‘gold-digger’ and is only used in the Dominican Republic and a small number of islands in the Caribbean.

What’s the Best Way to Learn Spanish (including the curses)

If you’re genuinely committed to the art of learning Spanish curse words — ok, and possibly the rest of the language, too — then one of the best techniques to do so is to practice immersive learning techniques alongside traditional methods of study.

Traditionally, this would have meant heading off to a country where Spanish is the official language and staying there for an extended period.

In reality, this isn’t a practical option for most people; however, with new methods and techniques for immersive learning now available, packing up and taking the next flight to Spain for the foreseeable future isn’t the only way to access and enjoy an immersive learning experience.

Have a go at reading books in Spanish, listening to music, and, best of all, watching subtitled Spanish TV programs and movies: these are a rich source of the best Spanish swear words.

Plus, you get to learn the language while being thoroughly entertained. Watching TV in the language you’re learning has been proved to be a very effective way of gaining proficiency; plus, there’s nothing likely to keep you more motivated than a binge-worthy series.

To help you decide what to watch we compiled this list of the best telenovelas to help you improve your Spanish. Telenovelas are a great way to study Spanish because they are a huge part of the culture in Latin America.

And if you’re wondering ‘how long does it take to learn Spanish?’ then, pleased to tell you, immersive techniques can speed up the process significantly, which means that you’ll be swearing like a native in no time.

If you’re wondering what the best shows on Netflix to learn Spanish are, check out our post.

We also recommend Lingopie Music. Check out our playlists full of awesome songs in Spanish! It’s a great way to practice and pick up new vocabulary.

Today, it’s Spanish Swear Words time! And I’m not just talking about the Pajero car which is sold in English speaking territories, because pajero is a Spanish Swear Word!

But if you want to learn ‘proper Spanish’ check out..

Inevitably, when you start learning a new language, you’re going to start speaking the slang or expletive expressions because that’s what the locals do! I think some of the first Spanish words I learnt were slang, thanks to some friends from Barcelona that I met in Africa.

They were more than happy to educate me with a tonne of Spanish swear words and curses. Actually, the words of any new language you learn are probably going to be expletives (see some Russian Swear Words for examples!)

I mean, many people don’t speak proper English, and communicate in a series of slang words, sentences, or even whole conversations!

And Spanish is no different!

Spanish is a very expressive language and I think it reflects the people that use it as their first language.

Like English, Spanish has morphed into different sorts of slang because it’s been exported all over the world, thanks to the Spanish Empire (check out some funny Spanish Translations from Colombia here!).

Of course, Spanish then mixes with the native languages and out comes something new!

So here you go, here are some Spanish Swear Words, Curses, Slang, and Expletives that range from not too bad to downright offensive!

If you don’t like swearing, stop reading now!

A silly, not so definitive list of Spanish Swear Words, Curses, Slang and Expletives!

By the way a couple of really high search terms on the internet include “Bitch in Spanish” which is “Perra“, and “Asshole in Spanish“. The answer to this one is either Gilipollas, tontopollas, or peludo!

Spanish Swear Word/Expletive	English Translation
Culo	Ass
Puta / Perra	Bitch
Puto	The “masculine” version of a bitch. Also, a very, very angry person
Hijueputa	Son of a bitch
Hijo de puta	Long version of hijueputa.
Triple-hijueputa	Three times motherf&*ker.
¿Estás puto?	Are you mad?
Pendejo	A dumb or stupid person, a dork
Deje de ser tan pendejo	Stop being a dork
Verga	Swear word: penis, but also is the arc of the crossbow and a type of sailing boat mast
Verga dura	A hard penis
Verga muy grande	A very big penis
Pelotudo	You have big balls (testicles) but in a dumb way
Tarado	A douchebag, a retard
Coger	To have sex, but also means ‘to grab’ something
Mierda	S&*t
Perro	Dog. Often used as “Perro hijueputa”
Polla	Female chicken, also penis
Culiao	Someone who just had anal sex
Chupamedias	Bootlicker
Cara de monda	Penis Face
Percanta	A person who lives a criminal lifestyle
Zunga	A bitch, prostitute
Gonorrea	A really mean person, also is a sexually transmitted disease
Cagar	To defecate
Trompada	A punch in the face.
Te voy a romper la cara a trompadas	I’m gonna break your face with my punches.
Loco	Crazy
Maldito	A cursed person
Maldición	Damn, dammit
Uy, que care-chimba	Hey, penis face.
Le quedo una chimba	It looks amazing/awesome.
Basura	Garbage
Chapero	Gay bitch
Bastardo	Bastard
Cabron	f&*king Bastard
Polla, nabo, rabo, verga, cipote	Penis
Gilipollas, tontopollas	D$%khead, asshole
Pichacorta	Little penis
Cojones, pelotas	Balls
Cojonazos	Big balls
Chichi	Vagina
pelos de los huevos/coño	Pubic hair
Chupame la polla	Suck my penis
Chupamela	Suck it
Zorra, guarra	Fox, dirty girl
Hijo de puta	Son of a bitch, motherf&*ker
Follar, joder, chingar	To f&*k
Me cago en ti –	I s&*t over you
Chorra, Pinnus	Stupid
Que te jodan	F&*k you
Que te den por culo	F&*k off you
Payaso	Clown
Desgraciado	Unlucky (literally means “son of a bitch”)
Calientapollas	Cockteaser
Me cago en la hostia	F&*king Damn it! (literaly: I s&*t in the communion wafers)
Me cago en la leche!	I s&*t in the milk! (means something like “s&*t, i’ve have bad luck”)
Besame el culo	Kiss my ass
Hijo de mil putas	Son of thousand bitches
Metete un palo por el culo	Shove a stick up your ass
Hueles a mierda	You smell like s&*t
Jode a tu madre	F&*k your mom
Valió madre/Valió verga	Literally “It was worth mother” or “It was worth cock”, but means “something is f&*ked.”
Güey	Literally means ox, but also means a dumb person
¡Mira qué cabrón!	Don’t try to be a smart-ass
Pinche idiota	F&*king idiot
Pinche puta	F&*king bitch
Tu madre es una puta fea	Your mother is an ugly bitch
Yo cago en la leche de tu puta madre	I s&*t in your whore mother’s milk
Me encanta tu culo	I love your ass
Métetelo por el culo	Stick it up your arse
Pendejo	Jackass / asshole
Tu hermano no tiene la ingle	Your brother has no groin
Cagaste y saltaste en la caca	You s&*t and jumped in it
Caquita de la vaquita	Cow s&*t
Chinga tu hermana	F&*k your sister
Chinga tu madre	F&*k your mother
Chingate	F&*k you / Go f&*k yourself
Cojeme	F&*k me
Jode tu madre ayer noche	I f&*ked your mother last night
Qué chingados es eso?!	What the f&*k is that?
Tonta	Bollocks
Por huevos/cojones	Literally “for eggs/testicles”. Means a reason is not required for someone to do something.
Costar un huevo	Literally to cost an egg. Used to indicate that something is very expensive.
Kieta el stupido elephante	Shut up you stupid elephant
Tengo ganas	I am horny
Tienes ganas?	Are you horny?
Tirate a un poso	Throw yourself in a hole
Tonta	Bullocks
Tu eres más feo que el culo de un mono	You are uglier than the butt of a monkey
Tu madre es muy gato y feo	Your mother is fat and ugly
Tu madre es una estupida	Your mom is stupid
Tu madre es una puta	Your mom is a whore
Tu madre es una puta fea	Your mother is an ugly bitch
Vete al infierno	Go to hell
Yo mataria tu!	I am going to kill you!
Hora	Nasty penis
Culo peludo	Hairy asshole
Cara de panocha	Crotch face
Cara de pito	Penis face
cara de mi huevo izquierdo-	Left ball face
Puta madre	Fu*king sh*t
Bete a la verga	Go to hell
Mamon/Mamona	Idiot or moron
Come mierda	Eat s*%t
puta barrata	Cheap whore
Cojete mi suegra	F*ck my mother in law
No me jodas	Don’t f&*k with me.
La he jodido	I f&*ked it up
South/Central American Spanish Swear Words	English Translation
Maraca (Chile)	Slut
Pete (Argentina)	Fellatio
Pinche	Literally means kitchen assistant, but is a mean person or stingy
Pinga	Penis
Chilito	Little penis
Chichis	Breasts
Mondá (Colombia)	Penis
Concha (Argentina)	Bitch
El orto/ojete (Argentina)	Ass
Las tetas (Argentina)	Boobs
No joda (North Colombia)	Shut the f*&k up, leave me alone

There you go!

This of course, is just a small sample of the Spanish swear words and slang that’s out there.

I’m not exactly fluent in Spanish, but I’ve used some of these terms above and it’s all taken in a light hearted way!

But if you’re a native Spanish speaker, I’m sure you’ve got loads more of great expressions!

If you do, leave your funniest and favourite one in the comments below!

I’m sure they’ll be all gold!

See more at my list of British Slang, Irish Slang, funny Australian sayings, Italian Swear Words, Russian Swear Words and Expletives, French Swear Words, and German Swear Words. Plus how to speak like a Kiwi bro!

Travelling soon? Then check out some Backpackers Travel Insurance for Spain and South America! and my Best Travel Insurance tips.