Spanish
10 Spanish swear words you'll actually hear
A traveller's shortlist of Spanish expletives, insults and exclamations — what they mean, and how strong they are.
Every language swears differently. This guide collects 10 Spanish expressions you're genuinely likely to hear — from mild exclamations to properly strong stuff — and explains what each one actually means, not just its dictionary translation.
Burn Ratings are an approximate, cross-language heuristic. Context, region, tone and who's speaking all change how a word lands. Treat these as a guide, not gospel.
- joder 4/5 · Strong
Literally “have sex”. It means to fuck, but can also mean to bother or ruin something. In Spain, it's often used as an exclamation.
Full entry → - coño 4/5 · Strong
It's a vulgar exclamation used to express surprise or annoyance. Literally, it means 'vulva.'
Full entry → - cabrón 4/5 · Strong
It's a strong insult similar to calling someone a bastard, though it can also be used in a more friendly or admiring way depending on context. Literally, it means 'male goat.'
Full entry → - vete a la mierda 4/5 · Strong
It's a hostile way to tell someone to fuck off. The literal translation, 'go to the shit,' emphasizes the disdain but isn't meant to be taken literally.
Full entry → - de mierda 3/5 · Vulgar
Literally “of shit”. It means something is shitty, lousy, or contemptible. It's often used to describe something negatively.
Full entry → - que te follen 4/5 · Strong
This is a strong way to tell someone to fuck off or get lost. It literally means 'may they fuck you,' emphasizing a harsh dismissal.
Full entry → - me la pela 3/5 · Vulgar
It means 'I don't give a fuck' and expresses a strong sense of indifference.
Full entry → - chingón 3/5 · Vulgar
It’s a slang term used to describe someone or something as badass or very good. It carries a positive connotation, especially in Mexico.
Full entry → - pendejo 3/5 · Vulgar
It’s primarily an insult meaning fool or asshole in many Latin American countries. Literally, it translates to 'pubic hair,' which adds a layer of insult in context.
Full entry → - cabronazo 4/5 · Strong
It's an emphatic insult for someone who is nasty or shameless. Literally, it translates to 'big bastard.'
Full entry →