Author: Constanza Jeldres

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Spanish as a language The language today

Regional expressions and idioms: a voyage through the sayings of the Spanish-speaking world

Spanish is a language as diverse as the countries that speak it. Whether in Madrid, Buenos Aires, Mexico City, or Medellín, in every corner of the Spanish-speaking world, you’ll discover unique expressions that can make you laugh, confuse you, or even get you in trouble if you don’t understand them. These phrases and sayings reflect each community’s culture, humour, and history.

Some of these expressions are so amusing that, if taken literally, they seem absurd, while others showcase pure popular creativity. Join us on this journey through some of the most curious and entertaining idioms from Spanish-speaking countries. We’re sure that at least one will surprise you!

Spain: Between “flipar” and “estar en las nubes”

In Spain, colloquial expressions are an art form. When someone says they are “flipando,” it doesn’t mean they are doing somersaults; rather, it indicates they are astonished or surprised. It is also common to hear “Estar en las nubes” to describe someone distracted or absent-minded.

For instance, people from Madrid might exclaim “¡Vaya tela!” when something seems unbelievable to them, whereas in the south of the country, one often hears “¡Ojú!” as a sign of astonishment or weariness. And if a Spaniard tells you that “estás en la parra,” you’d best pay attention, as it means you are not listening to what they say.

Mexico: “Aguas,” “chido,” and “se me hace gacho”

In Mexico, Spanish is steeped in colourful expressions. One of the most well-known is “¡Aguas!”, which has nothing to do with the liquid but is instead a warning to be alert. If something is good or cool, it’s “Chido,” if someone says “se me hace gaucho,” it means that they find something ugly or unpleasant.

If a Mexican tells you “no manches,” they may be surprised or disagree with you, while “estar hasta las chanclas” indicates that someone has had too much to drink. And if you hear “me vale,” it means that the person doesn’t care at all what’s going on.

Argentina: “Un quilombo,” “posta,” and “che”

Rioplatense Spanish also has its repertoire of idioms. In Argentina, “quilombo” refers not to a dance, but to a severe chaos or problem. “Posta” is a way of stating that something is true, similar to “de verdad.” And if someone calls you “che,” they are simply getting your attention.

An Argentinean may say “me la banco” to indicate they can handle a difficult situation. If something “pinta bien,” it is because it has a good prognosis. And if you hear “un pibe,” they talk about a boy or young person.

Colombia: “Estar amañado,” “berraco,” and “vaina”

In Colombia, Spanish has a rhythm that is full of charming expressions. “Estar amañado” means to feel comfortable in a place, while “berraco” can refer to someone brave or, depending on the context, an angry person.

“Vaina” is a catch-all word for anything, whether positive or negative. People who say “me da mamera” express laziness or disinterest. And if you hear “parce,” it’s the Colombian version of “amigo” or “compadre.”

Chile: “Andar o estar pato”, “fome” and “cachar”

Chilean Spanish also has a unique flavour. “Andar pato” means to be broke, while “fome” describes something dull. If a Chilean says “¡cachai?”, they ask if you understand.

“Carrete” is the code word for party, and “hacer una vaca” (do a cow) does not imply animals, but instead gathering money between several people for an ordinary expense. “Andar arriba de la pelota” (to be on top of a ball) is to be drunk, because literally if you get on a ball you lose your balance 🤣. If someone “tira la talla” (throw the size) is joking, and if they tell you “chicotea los caracoles,” (whips the snails) they are hurrying you up since chicota is a type of whip. Suppose someone tells you that “Claudio me está pintando el mono” (Claudio is painting me the monkey) means he called him out or corrected him for something. On the other hand, “pintamono” can also mean to clown around, to make a fool of oneself to get attention, for example, by saying “Claudio is a pintamonos” or what is the same, “Claudio is giving juice”.

To leave someone like a “chaleco de mono” (monkey vest) means that someone spoke badly of him behind his back. And one last thing with animals: “echarse una manito de gato” (to give oneself a kitty hand) means to carefully groom oneself before going out💅.

One language, a thousand ways to express it.

Spanish, like all languages, is shaped by the culture and identity of each country. This is why regional idioms and expressions enrich communication and reflect the history and creativity of their speakers.

If you travel around the Spanish-speaking world, be prepared to discover that what means one thing in your country may be entirely different in another. Best of all, learning these idioms is one of the most enjoyable ways to immerse yourself in a new culture. So, gather your thoughts and continue exploring the fascinating world of words!

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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Spanish as a language The language today

The Language of Gastronomy: Unique Spanish Terms for Describing Flavours, Textures, and Traditional Dishes

You sit down at the table, pick up your fork, and with the first bite, a smile spreads across your face. “This is absolutely delicious!” you exclaim, as the aroma of the food envelops you. It’s not just the taste, but the texture, the scent, and the memory each dish brings to mind. Gastronomy possesses its own language, and in Spanish, we have many words and expressions that describe the culinary experience with a precision and passion that few languages can match.

Words That Awaken the Palate

Spanish is a language as tasty as its food. It is not enough to say that something is good; we need nuances, details that express precisely what we feel on the palate. A stew can be “contundente” (strong), dense and full of substance, ideal for replenishing energy. A “meloso” dish has a soft and unctuous texture, like a good risotto or a rice soup. And if a dessert is “empalagoso” (cloying), its sweetness is excessive, almost impossible to finish.

As for flavours, Spanish has specific words to describe sensations that go beyond the basics. The “bitter” of a good coffee is not the same as the “astringent” of a young red wine. Something “spicy” produces a warmth in the mouth, but if it is “especiado” (spicy), it implies a complex mixture of aromas and flavours that do not necessarily burn.

Texture Matters

It’s not solely about flavour in food; texture also plays a crucial role. In Spanish, we describe a food as “crujiente” (crispy) when it makes a sound when you bite into it, like a good crust of bread or a well-cooked fry. If it’s “jugoso” (juicy), it retains its juices and feels fresh and flavoursome, like medium-rare meat or ripe fruit. A “esponjoso” (spongy) cake is light and airy, while a “mazacote” cake is dense, heavy, and sometimes excessively.

Dishes with Unmistakable Names

Beyond the words that describe sensations, gastronomic Spanish also includes the names of dishes that evoke tradition and flavour.

  • Imagine an edible hug! A Mexican taco is like a small corn quilt that lovingly envelops a juicy and flavourful filling. It can be made of suadero, pastor, cochinita or even nopalitos. Still, it always comes with its inseparable entourage: onion, cilantro and a sauce that can make you cry from happiness… or spiciness. It is a festive bite.
  • Spanish tapas are like those friends that never fail: small, varied and always welcome. Each tapa is a short but tasty story from a crunchy croquette that hides a creamy heart to some patatas bravas that challenge you with their spicy sauce.
  • Chancho en piedra is the rockstar of Chilean sauces: simple, rustic, and full of character. It is made with ripe tomatoes, chilli, garlic, and cilantro, all crushed in a stone mortar until the flavours merge intensely. The result is a fresh, vibrant mix with a playful spiciness that awakens the senses. Its name may mislead the unprepared (it doesn’t contain pork, just its tasty spirit), but its fame is well-deserved. It is the ideal accompaniment to warm, kneaded bread and a perfect excuse to share in good company. One spoonful and you’re in Chile!
  • Spanish torrijas are proof that simple ingredients can create authentic delicacies. They are slices of bread that, after being dipped in milk flavoured with cinnamon and lemon, are coated in egg and fried until golden and crispy on the outside but tender and juicy on the inside. Then, they are sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon or dipped in honey, becoming a sweet and comforting snack. Traditional for Easter but welcome all year round, torrijas are the caloric hug that no one refuses.

Gastronomic Expressions

Food is so vital in Spanish-speaking culture that it has given rise to countless expressions. Saying that someone is “como un fideo” means they are skinny, while if they are “hecho un tonel” it implies the opposite. If a dish is “para chuparse los dedos”, it is because it is delicious, and if someone “no da ni un huevo”, it means they are stingy.

Of course, we cannot forget many people’s favorite expression: “pan comido,” which refers to something easy to make. However, not everything in the kitchen is as simple as it seems.

Food is so vital in Spanish-speaking culture that it has given rise to countless expressions. Saying that someone is “like a noodle” means they are skinny, while if they are “made into a barrel” it implies the opposite. If a dish is “to lick your fingers”, it is because it is delicious, and if someone “doesn’t give even an egg”, it means they are stingy.

Of course, we cannot forget many people’s favorite expression: “pan comido,” which refers to something easy to make. However, to tell the truth, not everything in the kitchen is as simple as it seems.

A Language to Savour

Those who speak Spanish have a unique way of discussing food, rich in nuances, textures, and evocations. Perhaps it is because gastronomy is more than simply eating: it is history, it is culture, and, above all, it is pleasure. The next time you savour a good dish, attempt to describe it with some of these words. Food is not only tasted but also narrated, which is why we know how to relish la sobremesa.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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Improving language Spanish as a language

Common mistakes in Spanish writing (and how to avoid them without losing your mind)

Spanish is a wonderful language, but it is also full of pitfalls even native speakers fall into. Sometimes, we make mistakes out of habit or carelessness without realising it. Here we tell you about some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them without suffering.

1. Confusion between “de que” and “que”

One of the most common mistakes is the incorrect use of “de que”. For example, saying “Me di cuenta que…” instead of “Me di cuenta de que…”. A simple trick is to replace the phrase with “eso”: if “Me di cuenta eso” doesn’t make sense, then the correct word is “de que”. This mistake is so common that it deserves special attention.

2. Incorrect use of commas ❌

Commas can completely change the meaning of a sentence. For example:

✅ Correct: “Let’s eat, grandma.” (We talk to grandma about the food.)

❌ Incorrect: “Let’s eat grandma.” (It sounds like grandma is the main dish 😱).

3. Forgotten accent marks on past tense verbs

Past tense verbs often have an accent mark on the last syllable, such as “comió”, “habló” or “decidió”. Forgetting these accent marks is a common mistake that can change the tense or even the word’s meaning. Paying attention to the rules of accentuation is key to avoiding misunderstandings.

4. “Hay”, “ahí” and “ay”

These three words sound the same, but they have very different meanings:

  • Hay: from the verb “haber”. Example: “Hay muchas estrellas esta noche” (There are many stars tonight).
  • Ahí: indicates a place. Example: “El libro está ahí, sobre la mesa” (The book is there, on the table).
  • Ay: expression of complaint or pain. Example: “¡Ay, me he golpeado el pie!” (Oops, I hit my foot!).

Confusing them can lead to meaningless sentences or misinterpretations.

5. Confusion between “because,” “why,” “porqué,” and “por que” ❌

It’s easy to get tangled up with these four forms, but each has a specific use:

  • Porque: Explains a cause. Example: “No vine porque estaba enfermo”. (I didn’t come because I was sick.)
  • Por qué: Used in questions. Example: “¿Por qué llegaste tarde?” (“Why were you late?”)
  • Porqué: It’s a noun that means “reason.” Example:  “No entiendo el porqué de su enojo.” (“I don’t understand why he’s angry.”)
  • Por que: Used when the preposition “por” precedes “que.” Example: “Luchamos por que se haga justicia.” (“We fight for justice to be done.”)

6. “Haiga” instead of “haya” ❌

This error is widespread in colloquial speech and is caused by confusion with the conjugation of the verb “haber” in the subjunctive. “Haiga” is not an accepted form in standard Spanish.

✅ Correct: Ojalá haya más oportunidades.
❌ Incorrect: Ojalá haiga más oportunidades.

These errors are common in various regions and can affect the accuracy of the message.

7. Incorrect use of “sino” and “si no”

Although they sound the same, they have different uses:

  • Sino: equivalent to “but”. Example:  “No es rojo, sino azul”à”It’s not red, but blue”.
  • Si no: conditional. Example:  “Si no estudias, no aprobarás”. à”If you don’t study, you won’t pass”.

Confusing them can alter the meaning of the sentence.

8. “Vinistes”, “fuistes” and other incorrect conjugations ❌

It is common to add an unnecessary “s” at the end of some verbs in the second person singular of the preterite tense.

✅ Correcto: Tú viniste temprano. (You came early.)
❌ Incorrecto: Tú vinistes temprano.

✅ Correcto: Tú fuiste al cine. (You went to the cinema.)
❌ Incorrecto: Tú fuistes al cine.

9. Using “a” and “ha”

“A” is a preposition, while “ha” is the form of the verb “haber”. Example:

•     A:  “Voy a la tienda” à “I’m going to the store”.

  • Ha:  “Ella ha terminado su tarea” à “She has finished her homework”.

Confusing them is a common mistake that can change the sentence’s meaning.

10. “Tubo” and “tuvo”

Although they sound the same, “tubo” refers to a cylindrical object, while “tuvo” is the past tense of the verb “tener.” Example:

  • Tubo:  “El fontanero cambió el tubo dañado”. à“The plumber replaced the damaged pipe.”
  • Tuvo:  “Ella tuvo una idea brillante”. à “She had a brilliant idea.”

Paying attention to these differences is crucial for accurate writing.

Spanish is a rich and nuanced, yet we can sidestep these errors and enhance our communication with some practice. Have you ever made any of these blunders? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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The language today

Spanish in science: Terminology and Presence of the Language in Research

For decades, science and technology have been dominated by English, but Spanish is not far behind. Although many papers and conferences are written in English, our language plays a key role in various areas of knowledge, from botany to artificial intelligence. Yes, there is also room for Spanish in the world of algorithms and neural networks.

Spanish in botany: A green legacy

If there is a field where Spanish has taken root, it is in botany. It is no coincidence that many plants have names in Spanish or Latin with a Hispanic influence. From quina (cinchona), whose active ingredient (quinine) was used as a treatment for malaria, to the ceibo (Erythrina crista-galli), the emblematic tree of Argentina and Uruguay, the jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) or the quebracho (Schinopsis), Spanish terms have nourished the science of the classification and description of flora.

Spanish-speaking botanists have significantly contributed to the classification of species in Latin America. Terms such as “epífita” “epiphyte” (a plant that grows on another without parasitising it) or “xerófila” “xerophilous” (adapted to dry climates) are used in Spanish in scientific literature. Even many species of orchids and cacti are named after Spanish-speaking explorers and naturalists.

Artificial Intelligence in Spanish: Neural Networks and Beyond

Spanish is also present in the world of technology. Concepts such as “deep learning”, “natural language processing” (NLP) and “convolutional neural networks” (CNN) have their equivalents in Spanish and are increasingly used in research. Artificial intelligence models trained specifically for Spanish, such as BETO (a Spanish version of BERT, the Google model), have emerged in recent years.

In voice recognition, optical character recognition (OCR) and speech-to-text technologies have progressed in interpreting Spanish, allowing virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant to understand regional accents and idioms better. We cannot forget vector databases and RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) architectures, which are helping language models generate more accurate responses in our language.

Medicine and biochemistry: Terms that cross borders

Medicine is also strongly influenced by Spanish. Many terms in pharmacology and biochemistry come from our language or have been adapted to English. An example is “dopamine,” derived from “dopa,” a substance discovered in the 1950s whose name comes from the amino acid L-Dopa. Another example is “placebo,” a word of Latin origin used equally in Spanish and English.

In Latin America, research into tropical diseases such as dengue or Chagas has produced its terminology, reinforcing Spanish’s role in global scientific communication.

Science in Spanish: More than an option, a necessity

Although English continues to dominate scientific publication, Spanish is present in generating knowledge in multiple disciplines. Its use is not only a question of identity, but also of access. Publishing in Spanish allows more Spanish-speaking researchers to access information without language barriers.

For this reason, promoting scientific dissemination in Spanish through blogs, podcasts, and videos on platforms such as YouTube helps make science accessible in our language.

Also promoting the teaching of scientific terminology in Spanish: in many Spanish-speaking countries, science students learn concepts in English, which sometimes makes scientific communication in their native language difficult.

Our language continues to leave its mark in botany, artificial intelligence, and medicine. So, the next time you use a chatbot in Spanish or read about a new species of orchid, remember that science in our language is still alive and evolving.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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Spanish as a language

Sister Languages: Tell Me What Language You Speak, and I’ll Tell You How Quickly You’ll Learn Spanish

Learning a new language is like stepping into a family reunion where you don’t know anyone, but everyone shares a connection. And if the language you want to learn is Spanish, here’s some good news: it has plenty of “siblings” that can make the process much easier (or at least less intimidating). Want to know how quickly you might learn Spanish, depending on your native tongue? Keep reading!

The Romance Family: Close Cousins

Spanish belongs to the Romance language family, descendants of Vulgar Latin. You’re already halfway there if you speak one of its siblings, like Italian, Portuguese, French, Catalan, or Romanian.

For example, if you’re an Italian speaker, congratulations! You probably won’t need an intensive course to grasp basic Spanish. Words like familia (family), vino (wine), or amigo (friend) are practically identical. Even the grammatical structures are so similar they could be neighbours in a dictionary.

Portuguese speakers also have it pretty easy. With grammar that’s almost identical and very similar to vocabulary, the biggest challenge might be pronunciation. But don’t worry—with some practice, you’ll go from obrigado to gracias in no time.

French, while more distant in pronunciation, shares many lexical roots. Words like nation (nación) or important (importante) are almost the same, with a different accent. Watch out for false friends, though! (Embarazada doesn’t mean embarrassée; it means “pregnant.” Oops!)

The Surprise of Romanian

Though further away on the linguistic tree, Romanian is also a Romance sibling of Spanish. Its grammar includes case systems (like Classical Latin), which makes it a bit trickier. However, it shares many similar words, and Romanian speakers often find Spanish more accessible than other languages.

What About English? Distant Cousins

English and Spanish aren’t exactly siblings, but they’re more like distant cousins who greet each other at family gatherings. Both come from the Indo-European family, and while English belongs to the Germanic branch, it has borrowed thousands of words from Latin and Romance.

Thanks to these borrowed words, many academic, scientific, or political terms are easy to recognise: hospital, animal, intelligent, communication, etc. Plus, English and Spanish share straightforward verb structures and an almost identical alphabet, making things a bit easier.

The Germanic Languages: A Little Effort, But Doable

If your native language is German, Dutch, or Swedish, learning Spanish might be a bit more challenging, but it’s far from impossible. Spanish grammar is more flexible than Germanic grammar, which can be a relief. Plenty of words have travelled between these languages over the centuries. Did you know that guante (glove) comes from the Germanic word want?

The Slavic Languages: Unexpected Connections!

Do you speak Russian, Polish, or Czech? Although Spanish isn’t directly related, sharing the Latin alphabet (except for Russian) is advantageous. Slavic languages have sounds similar to Spanish, making pronouncing words like montaña (mountain) or mujer (woman) a bit easier.

Asian Languages: A Fun Challenge

For speakers of languages like Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, learning Spanish might seem like climbing a higher mountain, but it’s not impossible. The biggest difficulties are often the grammar and the concept of gendered nouns (why is a table feminine and a book masculine?). However, Spanish has a big advantage: its pronunciation is much more consistent than English’s, making it a more logical language to learn.

Indigenous Languages: Unexpected Links

If you speak languages like Náhuatl or Quechua, you might be surprised to learn that Spanish has borrowed many words from these cultures. Terms like chocolate, aguacate (avocado), or cancha (field) have indigenous roots. Additionally, in many cases, Spanish phonetics adapt well to speakers of these languages.

Spanish: A Language for Everyone

One of the most significant advantages of Spanish is its clarity and consistency. It’s a language with relatively stable grammar rules and pronunciation almost entirely phonetic (what you read is what you say). Plus, with over 500 million speakers worldwide, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice.

Learning Spanish is an exciting journey whether you speak a Romance language, English, or something entirely different. You never know how much you’ll enjoy its expressions, music, or the rich culture that comes with it. And you? What language do you speak? Share your experience learning Spanish, and let’s celebrate the wonders of our linguistic family together!

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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The language today

Words in Spanish That Have Changed Their Meaning Over Time (And Surprised Us Along the Way!)

Spanish never stops surprising us. It’s a living language that evolves with the people who speak it, and a clear example of this is the words whose meanings have changed over time. Some have transformed so much that if we travelled back in time, people would probably give us strange looks for using them the way we do today. Here are some linguistic stories that will make you smile.

Villano (Villain)

Today, we call the “villano” the evil character in a movie or the antagonist of a story. But if we go back a few centuries, the term had a humbler origin: a “villano” was simply someone who lived in a small village. So, how did a humble villager turn into a sinister character? Over time, the term acquired negative connotations by associating with lower-class people and, later, with questionable behaviour.

Bizarro (Bizarre)

This word is a perfect example of an unexpected twist. Originally, “bizarro” meant brave, generous, or noble, something worthy of a hero. However, the influence of the English word bizarre turned it into a synonym for strange or unusual. Today, depending on who you ask, it could mean either one.

Azafata (Flight Attendant)

Today, we think of an “azafata” as a friendly person who assists us on an aeroplane. But initially, the term referred to a lady-in-waiting in a royal court who served queens and princesses. It wasn’t until the 20th century, with the rise of air travel, that the word began to be used for the cabin crew. Pretty interesting, right? From palaces to the sky!

Formidable

Today, we say something is “formidable” to mean excellent, impressive, or outstanding. However, in its origin, this word had a darker nuance. It came from the Latin formidabilis, which meant “fear-inspiring” or “terrible.” Over time, that initial fear transformed into admiration, making the term more positive.

Burro (Donkey)

Yes, we all know the word “burro” refers to a lovable animal (or someone who isn’t very intelligent, though that’s a bit unfair). But did you know that in Latin, burricus meant “small horse”? What started as an elegant term ended up becoming much more rural.

Rodilla (Knee)

If you thought “rodilla” always referred only to the knee joint, think again. In Old Spanish, this word was also used to describe the elbow. Imagine the confusion in a medical conversation from that time!

Almohada (Pillow)

“Almohada” is an Arabic word (al-mukhadda) meaning “the place where you rest your cheek.” Though its function hasn’t changed much, the term has evolved across centuries and regions to become the sweet place where we rest our heads every night.

Botella (Bottle)

Nowadays, we think of a “botella” as a glass container, but in the Middle Ages, the term referred to clay jugs. With the arrival of new materials, the word evolved into the meaning we know today.

These stories remind us that Spanish is much more than just grammar rules: it’s a time machine reflecting our history and culture. Do you know of any other words that have changed their meaning? Please share your favourite, and let’s keep exploring the wonders of our language together!

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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The language today

New Words in the RAE! From “Espóiler” to “Teletrabajar”: How Our Language Evolves

Hey there, word enthusiasts! The Spanish language, as vibrant as it is, is constantly evolving. The Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) updates its dictionary annually, reflecting how people speak. The latest update is no exception, with over 4,000 changes, including new words, updated definitions, and even some long-awaited acknowledgements of terms we’ve used for years. Let’s explore a few of the highlights and what they mean for the evolution of Spanish.

Espóiler

We’ve all been there. You’re midway through a series or eagerly waiting to watch a movie, and someone drops a spoiler. Now, the word “espóiler” is officially part of the dictionary. Borrowed from English, it refers to revealing key plot points that ruin a fictional work’s surprise element. While some language purists criticise the use of anglicisms, the reality is that terms like this have become so ingrained in everyday conversation that their inclusion feels natural. After all, language evolves to meet the needs of its speakers.

Teletrabajar

If there’s one word that perfectly encapsulates the pandemic era, it’s “teletrabajar.” This term, meaning to work remotely using telecommunication tools, became a part of our collective vocabulary as millions worldwide transitioned to working from home. The RAE’s formal recognition acknowledges the societal shift in how we approach work. With remote work becoming a permanent option for many, this term isn’t going anywhere.

Sérum

For skincare aficionados, “sérum” is hardly a novelty. This lightweight cosmetic product, applied before heavier creams, targets specific skin concerns like hydration or anti-ageing. Including this word highlights how lifestyle trends, such as the growing emphasis on skincare, influence the evolution of language. Beauty enthusiasts everywhere can point to the dictionary and say, “See? It’s official!”

Dana

Although it might sound like a name, “dana” is an acronym for Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos (Isolated Depression in Upper Levels). This meteorological phenomenon often brings intense storms and heavy rainfall, particularly in some areas of Spain. Given its growing importance in weather reports and climate discussions, its addition to the dictionary reflects how language adapts to describe our environment and its challenges.

Barista

Coffee culture has exploded in recent years, and so has the term “barista.” A barista is a professional who prepares high-quality coffee, often with impressive latte art. The word’s inclusion in the dictionary is a nod to the global influence of coffee culture and its growing importance in daily life.

Tabulé

Culinary terms often enter the dictionary as global cuisines become more accessible. Tabulé, a Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and other fresh ingredients, is one such example. Its recognition in the RAE dictionary is a testament to how food connects cultures and enriches our vocabulary.

More New Additions

The latest update isn’t just about the words we’ve covered. Terms like “chorreo” (meaning a scolding or reprimand), “microplástico” (microplastic), and even playful entries like “techno” (a music genre) have also been added. These words span a wide range of topics, from environmental issues to pop culture, showcasing the dynamic and inclusive nature of the Spanish language.

A Living Language

Language is alive and constantly changing to reflect the world around us. The RAE’s role is to document these changes and provide a framework for how Spanish is spoken and written. Some additions may spark debate—is “espóiler” necessary when we could say “descriptor” or “arruinar”? Does including anglicisms dilute the purity of the language? But ultimately, these changes represent how people use Spanish today.

What do you think of these new additions? Do they feel like natural evolutions, or do you think some are unnecessary? Regardless of where you stand, one thing is clear: language belongs to its speakers, and together, we shape how it grows and evolves.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

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History of Spanish language

Inclusive Language in Ancient Spanish

The debate about inclusive language in contemporary Spanish has sparked numerous discussions about the visibility of women and other groups in discourse. However, it is worth asking whether this phenomenon is truly a modern innovation or if, on the contrary, there are historical precedents in the use of ancient Spanish that reflect concerns for linguistic inclusion.

The Generic Masculine and Its Evolution

Traditionally, Spanish has used the masculine plural as a generic form to refer to mixed groups or when gender is unknown. This convention, based on the principle of linguistic economy, has been criticised for its potential to render women and other gender identities invisible. However, recent studies suggest that the concern for more equitable representation in language is not exclusive to our time.

Sor Juana de la Cruz: A Pioneer in Inclusive Language

A remarkable example is Sor Juana de la Cruz (1481–1534), a Franciscan tertiary from the 16th century. According to Patricia Fernández Martín’s article “Hacia una historia del lenguaje inclusivo en español: el caso de sor Juana de la Cruz (1481-1534)” (Towards a History of Inclusive Language in Spanish: The Case of Sor Juana de la Cruz), Sor Juana employed strategies that we would now identify as inclusive language in her sermons. To avoid the ambiguity of the generic masculine, she used expressions like “hermanos y hermanas” (brothers and sisters) or collective terms that included both genders. This deliberate choice ensured her message reached the entire congregation without excluding women.

Evidence of Inclusion in Other Ancient Texts

Beyond Sor Juana, there are other indications of inclusive language use in earlier times. For instance, in Miguel de Cervantes’ La Gitanilla, the expression “los gitanos y gitanas” (the Gypsy men and women) appears, demonstrating an intention to name both genders explicitly. Such constructions suggest that although the generic masculine was predominant, some authors opted for more inclusive forms when they considered it necessary to emphasise the presence of women in specific contexts.

The Debate in Historical Grammar

The discussion about gender in language is not new. In the 17th century, the French grammarian Vaugelas stated that “the masculine form has preeminence over the feminine because it is more noble.” This perspective cemented the use of the masculine as the generic and reflected an ideology that subordinated women through language. However, before this normative imposition, there were tendencies to feminise Spanish. An example is the transition from “la infante de Castilla” (the princess of Castile) to “la infanta” in the 16th century.

Although the debate on inclusive language has gained traction recently, it is evident that concerns about equitable representation in language have historical roots in ancient Spanish. Figures like Sor Juana de la Cruz and Miguel de Cervantes already used strategies to make both genders visible in their writings, demonstrating that the pursuit of linguistic inclusion is a constant evolution of our language. Recognising these precedents allows us to understand that language is dynamic and that today’s discussions are part of a continuous historical process toward more inclusive and representative communication for all of society.

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Culture around Spanish language

The Tradition of Celebrating “Feliz Santo” in Spanish-Speaking Countries

In many Spanish-speaking countries, wishing someone “Feliz Santo” (Happy Saint’s Day) is a cherished cultural practice deeply rooted in Catholicism and community spirit. While not as universally observed as birthdays, celebrating one’s onomástica (name day) holds special significance in regions where religious traditions and familial bonds are central to daily life.

What is a Name Day?

A name day corresponds to the feast day of a saint after whom a person is named. For example, María might celebrate the Feast of the Virgin Mary, or Juan could celebrate on the day dedicated to Saint John. Unlike birthdays, which are unique to each individual, name days link personal identity to a broader religious and cultural context.

How is it Celebrated?

The customs of celebrating a name day vary by country and family, but common elements include:

  • Greetings and well-wishes: Friends and family offer the simple yet heartfelt phrase “Feliz Santo” to mark the occasion. In some places, it’s customary to extend warm wishes even to acquaintances.
  • Special meals and gatherings: In certain families, name days are occasions for intimate meals or small celebrations, similar to a birthday but with a more spiritual undertone.
  • Religious observance: Devout individuals may attend Mass or pray in honour of their namesake saint, reflecting gratitude and seeking guidance.

Where is it Most Popular?

While celebrating name days is widespread in Spain, its significance varies across Latin America. In Spain, it is common to hear “Feliz Santo” among family members, coworkers, and even neighbours. However, the tradition is less prominent in countries like Mexico and Argentina, often overshadowed by other festivities.

Cultural Significance

The tradition of name days underscores the interplay between personal identity and communal values in Hispanic cultures. Celebrating la onomástica is about honouring an individual and recognising the shared heritage of saints and religious figures who have shaped cultural narratives.

Moreover, name days foster community spirit. Whether in a small village or a bustling city, the exchange of well-wishes strengthens social bonds and reflects the warmth and generosity characteristic of Spanish-speaking cultures.

Modern Adaptations

While younger generations may not observe name days as fervently as older ones, the tradition persists, especially in rural areas or devout families. Social media has also revived the practice, making it easier to send virtual “Feliz Santo” messages.

Ultimately, celebrating name days in the Hispanic world highlights the enduring importance of family, faith, and community in everyday life. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to honour the heritage and connect with loved ones.

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