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Spanish speakers, what are some funny Spanish phrases?

07/08/25 5:03pm
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Hunter Rising
Hunter Rising
wikiHow Staff
07/08/25 5:04pm
There are many weird Spanish phrases that sound funny when they're translated literally but make total sense in Spanish. Here are a few standout Spanish phrases with their English translations and meanings:
  • No saber ni papa de algo (Not knowing a potato about something): another way to say "I don't have a clue"
  • No ver tres en un burro (Can't see 3 people on a donkey): used to describe someone with bad eyesight
  • No tener pelos en la lengua (Has no hairs on their tongue): used to describe someone who's blunt and says how they're feeling directly
  • Ponte las pilas (Put your batteries in): another way to say "Hurry up!" or "Let's get going!"
  • Ser pan comido (To be eaten bread): another way to say something is really easy
  • La última coca cola desierto (The last Coca-Cola in the desert): a way to describe someone who thinks they're really important or attractive
  • Estar como una cabra (To be like a goat): used to describe someone who's acting a little crazy or bizarre
  • Tomar el pelo (to take the hair): used when you're making a joke, similar to "You're kidding"
  • Aunque la mona se vista de seda, mona se queda (Although the monkey is dressed in silk, it remains a monkey): used to describe someone who is trying to look like or be someone or something they're not
  • Camarón que se duerme se lo lleva la corriente (The shrimp who falls asleep is washed away by the current): another way to say act quickly or you'll miss out, similar to "You snooze, you lose!"
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