Swearing can be a really fun way to use a language, especially when the language is very versatile. Spanish is, without a doubt, one of the most versatile languages out there and there are all kinds of fun Spanish curse words ready to spice up your everyday conversation. It goes without saying, of course, that these swear words should be used with a level of respect and caution. So make sure you always know your audience and know their boundaries so you don’t end up burning any bridges!
Once you’ve perfected the art of using Spanish curse words you can move on to our favourite funny Spanish phrases! Or if you want to start from the beginning make sure to try out our 100+ Common Spanish Phrases article!
To check out all the amazing ways that you can learn Spanish during your time in Madrid, make sure to read our comprehensive guide on learning Spanish in Madrid!
1. Cojones
Cojones is one of the most versatile Spanish curse words on the list. So much so, that most English speakers have heard it and know what it means. So what does it mean? Well, balls, it means balls. Balls can be positive – especially when you say “tienes cojones!” which means “you’ve got balls”. We can also use cojones to express stress or frustration by saying “estoy hasta los cojones” which means something like “I’ve had it, I’m up to my balls”. Or, why not simply just say “cojones” when you’ve heard something you didn’t like?
2. Gilipollas
Have you ever seen the show Jackass? Well, chances are that the folks here in Spain would refer to those guys as Gilipollas. Directly translated it means “asshole” but rather than using it to call someone a jerk, it is used more to describe a person as an idiot, or a fool. Someone who just doesn’t think before doing something obviously stupid. It is an incredibly diverse word here in Spain and is often used as an incredible insult – “Ese tío es un gilipollas.” It can be very strong when not handled in a playful manner. So be careful!
3. Joder
Joderrrr! You’ve probably heard this more than a few times if you’ve been to Spain, or any Spanish speaking country for that matter! Joder’s closest English relative is the fan favourite “f*ck!” as well as “shit!” or “damn.” Though it’s not nearly as vulgar, it is just as versatile. If you’re stressed, surprised or disappointed you can use joder to express almost any situation. You have to work late tonight, Joder…You lost your phone, Jooderrr! You get the bill at an expensive restaurant, Jooooder!
4. Me Importa Tres Cojones
We know this Spanish curse word was already mentioned, but this particular phrase deserves it’s very own spot. “Me importa tres cojones” or “Me importa un cojon” is the Spanish equivalent of not giving a f*ck. You can either not give one f*ck (un cojon), or more commonly three f*cks (tres cojones). For example: Me importa tres cojones que no te guste mi coche. Which means, “I don’t give three f*cks that you don’t like my car”.
5. De Puta Madre
Directly translated, “puta madre” means something similar to “mother fucker”. Though this expression can be used in many different ways, “de puta madre” is a great way of expressing a compliment. If you think something is “the shit” or “awesome” you would say “es de puta madre!”
