Too many times the Spanish language is subjected to a barbaric butchering of its beautiful sound and its harmonious structure. Growing up in the United States I would often hear Spanish being spoken by non-Spanish speakers in a mocking, almost dismissive, way. Luckily, nowadays, there seems to be more of a push for truth. This is my contribution in order to educate the masses.
HOW NOT TO SOUND LIKE A GRINGO WHEN SPEAKING SPANISH
No. Sandwiching an English noun between an el and a letter O, does not make it Spanish; nor is it ingenious anymore. Seen it. Heard it. Next.
This one is sweet. It implies that Latino households are warm and hospitable. This is very true, however, no Spanish speaker ever has to say this because it’s implied! The closest I’ve ever heard to this phrase is: Estás en tu casa. For example; if you ask to use the restroom at someone’s home, they might say: Claro, estás en tu casa. This means, “Of course, you’re in your own home.”
You might say this if the soup burned your tongue, but never is it used to describe someone’s sex appeal. Spanish has a million and one ways of expressing attraction towards someone. One of my favorites is: Tanta carne y yo con hambre. Literally this means, “So much meat and I’m so hungry.”
4. RAPIDO, RAPIDO! ANDALE, ANDALE! ARRIBA, ARRIBA!
<Sigh> I won’t mention that cartoon mouse as it’s way before the average Tumblr user’s time. However, I have noticed that The Amazing Race contestants love to yell “rapido, rapido!” at taxi drivers from Spanish-speaking countries. I understand where they’re coming from, and I don’t blame them, but this is plain rude. Say this instead: ¿Puede ir un poco más deprisa, por favor?
If you want to tell someone they have no balls, tell them in English! Don’t veil your contempt for someone by misusing the Spanish language. A common way of saying this accurately is: No tienes agallas. It’s strong without being vulgar.
The condescending use of “comprende” when a Spanish speaker does not understand something is the height of humiliation. Try getting some help. If you actually do speak Spanish, there’s another way of saying this: ¿Me hago entender?
I’ve never heard any Spanish speakers ever say this. Along with adiós, “hasta la vista” is seriously misused and abused. Read my post on other ways of saying adiós to learn how to properly say bye <HERE>.
Yes, Spanish-speaking people are friendly, but that does not make them your amigo. Wait for them to call you “mi parce” or “mi compa” before you reciprocate. I’m looking for a few friends myself that can help me add to this list.
Do you know of another popularly misused Spanish phrase or word that makes you want to face palm yourself? Send me your suggestion by clicking <HERE>.
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