Do you know that feeling when you hear someone speaking Spanish, but you just can’t quite put your finger on where they’re from? Well, if you hear Spanish from Argentina, you’ll never forget it. 

Unlike Spanish from Mexico or Spanish other countries in Latin America, Spanish from Argentina is truly unique.

With its distinct slang and musical accent, Argentine Spanish is unlike any other variation of the language. Not to mention, it’s a great way to impress your amigos (or make your ex jealous). 

So, get ready to swap your “hola” for “che” and your “adiós” for “chau” as we take you on an Argentine language adventure!

Grammar and Slang | Understanding Spanish from Argentina

Spanish Grammar and Verbs in Argentina

Argentine Spanish verbs are like divas – they demand a little more attention than normal.

In fact, they have their own way of doing things altogether.

In other words, if you’re used to using the tú form, you can throw that out the window in Argentina.

Instead, let’s take a look at how Spanish speakers in Argentina use the voseo or “vos” form.

So get ready to conjugate like a boss and check out the examples we have included for you below. 

Mastering the voseo form

• AR verbs ending in ‘as’ are replaced with ‘ás,’
• ER verbs ending in ‘es’ are replaced with ‘és,’ 
• IR verbs ending in ‘es’ are replaced with ‘ís.’ 

Instead of saying “tú tienes” (you have), in Argentina you would say “vos tenés.”

“¿Cómo estás?” (How are you?) would be “¿Cómo estás vos?” in Argentina.

“¿Dónde estás?” (Where are you?) would become “¿Dónde estás vos?” in Argentine Spanish.

Instead of saying “tú eres” (you are) you would say “vos sos.”

“¿Qué estás haciendo?” (What are you doing?) becomes “¿Qué estás haciendo vos?” in Argentine Spanish.

Think you got it? If not, here’s some more practice for you to help you get your vos conjugation down in no time.

AR Verbs

• caminar: Vos caminás (you walk)
• bailar: Vos bailás (you dance)
• cantar: Vos cantás (you sing)
• estudiar: Vos estudiás (you study)

ER Verbs

• comer: Vos comés (you eat)
• beber: Vos bebés (you drink)
• leer: Vos leés (you read)
• correr: Vos corrés (you run)

IR Verbs

• vivir: Vos vivís (you live)
• abrir: Vos abrís (you open)
• decidir: Vos decidís (you decide)
• compartir: Vos compartís (you share)

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The Argentina “Lunfardo” Slang 

Like many other countries in Latin America, Argentina has its own unique slang. Except, Argentina slang has its own entire category of Spanish slang called Lunfardo.

In fact, you can actually trace most of Argentina’s Lunfardo slang back to the waves of Italian immigrants who settled in Argentina. Most of these immigrants came to Argentina in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

As these immigrants integrated into Argentine society, they brought their native language and customs with them. Over time, this Italian influence seamlessly blended with Spanish, giving rise to a fascinating linguistic fusion. 

Overall, people tend to know Argentine slang for being creative and playful due to its Italian influence. Looking for examples?

Check out the 11 examples of Argentina slang below to help you navigate the streets of Buenos Aires like a local!

10 Spanish Slang Terms from Argentina

“Che”

In Argentina, “che” is your go-to term for addressing a friend or someone whose name escapes you. Its roots trace back to the Mapudungun word “che,” meaning “person.” So, when you meet a new amigo in Argentina, don’t hesitate to call them “che”! In Argentina, “che” is pronounced like “ch-eh.”

“Boludo/a”

This popular Argentine term playfully describes someone acting silly or foolish. It springs from “bola,” meaning “ball.” Be mindful of context, though; it can also carry a sting. When in doubt, opt for more neutral endearments. (Pronunciation: “bo-loo-doh” for males and “bo-loo-dah” for females.)

“Laburar”

Work in Argentina isn’t just “trabajar” – it’s “laburar.” Speaking this lingo will help you blend in seamlessly and avoid sounding like a gringo. These words, along with a few more on the horizon, are your ticket to forging quick connections with locals. (Pronunciation: “la-boo-rahr.”)

“Chamuyar”

When someone in Argentina is spinning yarns or stretching the truth, they’re “chamuyando.” This term derives from “chamuyo,” which means “to talk” or “to chat.” So, the next time you encounter someone spinning tales in Argentina, apply a little skepticism. (Pronunciation: “cha-moo-yar.”)

“Guacho/a”

This term refers to an orphan or someone alone. Its origin stems from the Quechua word “wakcha,” signifying “lonely.” Bear in mind, though, that in some contexts, using “guacho” to denote someone who’s alone can be taken as an offense. So, exercise caution! (Pronunciation: “wah-choh” for males and “wah-chah” for females.)

“Pibe/a”

“Pibe” or “piba” is your way of referring to a young lad or lass. It’s often applied to someone youthful or green. Whether you’re a porteño or a visitor, being called a “piba” or “pibe” embodies the warmth and hospitality that characterize Argentine culture. (Pronunciation: “pee-beh” for males and “pee-bah” for females.)

“Guita”

When speaking Spanish from Argentina, “guita” is the word for money. It’s a product of Lunfardo, a vibrant slang variety cherished in Argentina. So, the next time you’re short on “guita” in Argentina, you’ll know precisely what to request. (Pronunciation: “gwee-tah.”)

“Chamuyero/a”

A smooth talker or charmer with persuasive conversation skills. The term derives from “chamuyar,” meaning to chat persuasively. So, if you meet a charming talker in Argentina, you can playfully call them a “chamuyero” or “chamuyera.” (Pronunciation: “cha-moo-yeh-ro” for males and “cha-moo-yeh-ra” for females.)

“Morfar”

Dining out in Argentina? You’ll want to use “morfar.” Incorporating this word during your next meal in Buenos Aires will please both your taste buds and your vocabulary. (Pronunciation: “mohr-far.”)

“Canje”

In Argentina, “canje” means an exchange or a swap. Whether you’re trading goods or stories, this word captures the spirit of trade and interchange that’s deeply ingrained in Argentine culture. So, if you’re planning any swaps or deals, remember to drop “canje” into the conversation. (Pronunciation: “can-heh.”)

The Argentine accent How to understand Spanish from Argentina

The Argentine accent is very noticable, and its rhythm can be difficult to get the hang of. But don’t worry, with a little knowledge and some practice, you’ll get the hang of it! In fact, many consider Argentine Spanish to be one of the most melodious types of Spanish in the world. 

¿Por qué? 

Why?

Mostly, because Argentine Spanish has a certain musicality that sets it apart from every other dialect, making it an absolute delight to speak and hear.

In part, the “sing-song” quality of the language comes from the emphasis on certain syllables and the elongation of certain vowels. Here are some examples. 

Pronouncing “y” and “ll” in Argentina

The Yeismo accent in Spanish from Argentina

Yes, in Argentina, the pronunciation of “y” and “ll” sounds is quite distinct from other Spanish-speaking countries. This phenomenon is known as “yeísmo” and is exclusive to the Rioplatense dialect, which is spoken in the eastern part of the country. 

The yeísmo phenomenon in Argentine Spanish is not only distinct but also subject to controversy among Spanish speakers. Some argue that this pronunciation leads to confusion and a loss of distinction between words. Here are some examples of what we mean.

1. “No me gusta la sherra” (I don’t like the shirt), instead of “no me gusta la yerra.”
2. “Vamos a shugar a la pelota” (Let’s play ball), instead of “vamos a jugar a la pelota.”
3. “La shuvia está muy fuerte” (The rain is very strong), instead of “la lluvia está muy fuerte.”
4. “Ella está en shaque” (She is in check), instead of “ella está en yaque.”

Nonetheless, it has become an important part of the Argentine dialect, along with other unique characteristic.

Argentine Spanish Dialects

Like many countries, there are several dialects of Spanish spoken in Argentina, each with its own unique features. The dialect spoken in Buenos Aires, the capital city, is considered to be the standard Argentine Spanish. However, there are also regional variations.

In Argentina, the two main dialects of Spanish spoken across the country are Rioplatense dialect, which is spoken in the eastern part of the country, and the Andean-Patagonian dialect, which is spoken in the western and southern parts of the country. 

Each of these dialects has its own unique characteristics, such as differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. ¡Vamos a echar un vistazo! Let’s take a look!

Rioplatense Dialect

The Ripplatense Dialect of Argentine Spanish is the most widely spoken and considered the standard dialect of the country. It’s known for its use of “vos” instead of “tú” as the informal singular pronoun.

Another twist is the pronunciation of “ll” and “y” as “sh” instead of “y” or “j”. That’s not the only twist though. Let’s take a look at Andean-Patagonian Dialect.

Andean-Patagonian Dialect

The Andean-Patagonian dialect, found in the mountainous and southern regions of Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia, is a unique variant of Spanish with distinct linguistic features. It is known for having a slower pace and softer intonation. It also includes many words and expressions like “guagua” (baby), and “cancha” (sports field) from indigenous languages such as Quechua and Mapudungun.

Wrapping up Spanish from Argentina

In conclusion, if you’re looking to add a little spice to your Spanish skills, Argentine Spanish is the way to go. With its unique grammar, playful slang, and distinctive accent, it’s a language adventure like no other. 

Whether you’re planning a trip to Buenos Aires or just want to impress your amigos, mastering Argentine Spanish will help you stand out from the crowd. So, throw out your tú form, learn some Lunfardo slang, and get ready to “morfar” like a local. ¡Qué copado! (How cool!)