30 Most Used Idioms in Colombian Spanish

When learning a new language, understanding idioms is crucial to truly mastering the nuances of conversation. This is especially true when diving into Colombian Idioms, which add a rich flavor to the everyday language of Colombia. Whether you’re a language enthusiast, a traveler, or someone keen on Colombian culture, familiarizing yourself with these idioms will significantly enhance your comprehension and communication skills.

What Are Colombian Idioms?

Colombian Idioms are phrases or expressions with figurative meanings that differ from their literal interpretations. These idioms are deeply embedded in Colombian culture and are used in various social contexts, from casual conversations to more formal settings. By understanding these idioms, you can gain deeper insights into the Colombian way of thinking and interacting.

Common Colombian Idioms in Daily Conversations

To start, let’s explore some of the most common Colombian Idioms you’ll encounter in everyday conversations. These idioms are essential for navigating both casual and formal interactions.

1. Estar en la olla

Literally translating to “being in the pot,” this idiom describes someone in a difficult or hopeless situation. For example, if someone is struggling to make ends meet, they might say, “Estoy en la olla.”

2. Echar los perros

This phrase means to flirt or to hit on someone. It’s commonly used in social situations, particularly when someone is trying to charm another person. For instance, “Juan está echando los perros a María.”

3. Estar como un tren

Used to describe someone who is very attractive, it’s similar to saying “you look like a model” in English. An example would be, “Esa chica está como un tren.”

4. No dar papaya

This quintessential Colombian idiom advises not to give someone the opportunity to take advantage of you. It’s a way to avoid trouble. For example, “En la calle, no des papaya con tu celular.”

5. Estar en las nubes

Translating to “being in the clouds,” this idiom is used when someone is daydreaming or not paying attention. A typical usage might be, “Estás en las nubes, ¿en qué piensas?”

6. Sacar la piedra

This idiom means to annoy or anger someone. Literally, it translates to “taking out the stone.” For instance, “Ese ruido me saca la piedra.”

7. Estar mamado

When someone is “mamado,” they are extremely tired or exhausted. It’s a common phrase used after a long day of work. You might hear, “Estoy mamado después de esa caminata.”

8. Meter la pata

This idiom refers to making a mistake or messing something up. For example, “Metí la pata en la reunión de hoy.”

9. Hacer una vaca

When Colombians say “hacer una vaca,” they mean to pool money together, usually for a party or to buy something communal. A common scenario is, “Hagamos una vaca para comprar la cerveza.”

10. Quedarse con los crespos hechos

This phrase is used when someone is left waiting or when plans fall through. For instance, “Me quedé con los crespos hechos porque no llegó.”

11. Estar embolatado

If someone is “embolotado,” they are lost or confused, often because they are overwhelmed by a situation. You might hear, “Estoy embolatado con tanto trabajo.”

12. Darle papaya

The counterpart to “no dar papaya,” this idiom means to give someone the opportunity to take advantage of you. For example, “Le di papaya y me robó la billetera.”

13. Ser una nota

This idiom means something or someone is awesome or really cool. An example would be, “Esa película es una nota.”

14. Pasarse de la raya

This idiom is used when someone crosses the line or goes too far. For instance, “Te pasaste de la raya con ese comentario.”

15. Bajar la caña

To “bajar la caña” means to scold or criticize someone. For example, “Mi jefe me bajó la caña por llegar tarde.”

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Colombian Idioms That Reflect Culture and Personality

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s delve into idioms that showcase the unique cultural and personality traits of Colombians.

16. Hablar paja

This idiom means to talk nonsense or to speak without saying anything meaningful. A typical example might be, “Deja de hablar paja y ponte a trabajar.”

17. No te hagas el loco

This phrase is used to tell someone not to pretend they don’t understand or aren’t aware of something. You could say, “No te hagas el loco, sabes de lo que hablo.”

18. Tener la sartén por el mango

This means to have control over a situation. For example, “Ella tiene la sartén por el mango en esa negociación.”

19. Ser un bocón

A “bocón” is someone who talks too much, often revealing secrets or talking out of turn. A common usage is, “No seas bocón, guarda el secreto.”

20. Estar hasta las narices

This idiom means to be fed up with something or someone. You might hear, “Estoy hasta las narices de sus excusas.”

21. Dejar tirado

This means to leave someone hanging or to abandon them. For instance, “Me dejó tirado en la fiesta.”

22. Tomar el pelo

This phrase means to tease or make fun of someone. You might say, “Estás tomando el pelo, no me creo esa historia.”

23. Estar en la inmunda

This idiom describes being in a very bad or difficult situation. For example, “Después del accidente, quedé en la inmunda.”

24. Estar pilas

“Estar pilas” means to be alert or attentive. A common example would be, “Necesitas estar pilas en esta reunión.”

25. Echar un ojo

This idiom means to take a look at something. You could say, “Echa un ojo a este informe, por favor.”

Unique Colombian Idioms You Should Know

Finally, here are some unique Colombian Idioms that add a special touch to the language. These idioms are essential for anyone wanting to sound like a true local.

26. Ponerle el pecho

This phrase means to face a situation head-on, often with courage. An example might be, “Ponerle el pecho a los problemas es lo que te hace fuerte.”

27. Ser un gomelo

A “gomelo” is someone who is preppy or acts superior because of their wealth or status. You might say, “Ese tipo es un gomelo, siempre mostrando su dinero.”

28. Irse de jeta

This means to fall flat on your face, literally or figuratively. A common scenario is, “Me fui de jeta en el partido de fútbol.”

29. Quedar boquiabierto

This idiom means to be left speechless or in awe. For example, “Quedé boquiabierto con la noticia.”

30. Meterse en camisa de once varas

This phrase means to get involved in something more complicated than anticipated. You could say, “Te metiste en camisa de once varas al aceptar ese trabajo.”

Why Learning Colombian Idioms Matters

Understanding and using Colombian Idioms is essential for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in Colombian culture. These idioms are not just linguistic expressions; they carry cultural meanings that can only be understood through their usage. Whether you’re reading Colombian literature, engaging in conversations with locals, or simply trying to get a deeper grasp of the language, mastering these idioms will provide you with a richer and more authentic experience.

For a more comprehensive dive into the Colombian Spanish language, including how these idioms are used in context, consider exploring Short Stories in Colombian Spanish, a book designed to enhance your understanding of Colombian idioms and expressions through engaging narratives

Ready to master Colombian idioms and speak like a local?