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Welcome, you are in Marca País
Welcome, you are in Marca País
Colombia’s Favorite Sayings
Sayings or proverbs are used in different situations, they are part of the daily life of Colombians and many of them have been transmitted by older generations that keep cultural traditions alive.
The Spanish spoken in Colombia is considered one of the best. But, as in all countries and cultures, Colombians adapt it in their own way depending on the region. Here we show you some Colombian sayings or phrases that, although they may not make much sense, for locals they mean everything, and you should know them before visiting this beautiful country. Colombia, the best place to learn Spanish in the world
These are the most commonly used Colombian sayings or proverbs:
1. "Did you sleep with me last night or what, since you're not even saying hello"
People who use this saying find a polite way to tell someone that not greeting is generally rude.
2. "Don't open your eyes at me, I'm not putting in eye drops"
This Colombian phrase is typical of mothers warning their children when they roll their eyes in disapproval. It's also a warning for misbehaving kids.
3. "When you're hungry, there's no hard bread"
This saying means that when you're hungry or in need, you can't be picky about what you have. It's often used with children who don't want to eat, to teach them gratitude.
4. "Sleeps more than an anemic cat"
This is a humorous way to tell someone that they sleep too much.
5. "Dirt that doesn't kill, fattens"
Who hasn’t dropped food they were eager to eat? This phrase justifies picking up fallen food quickly to avoid guilt.
6. "I'm so hungry, if I bend over I'll cut myself"
This is a typical expression from the Colombian Caribbean region, used when someone is extremely hungry.
7. "What do you eat that you guess everything?"
Some people seem to predict or guess things easily. This Colombian saying is perfect for them, as if they had a crystal ball.
8. "If you own the shop, then mind it"
Mostly used by older people, this phrase gives a lesson in responsibility to younger folks, meaning it's important to look after what’s yours.
9. "I’ll tell you the miracle but not the saint"
This is a typical gossip-related phrase, indicating the story will be shared, but not the source.
10. "They're like fingernail and dirt"
A friendly way to say two people are very close and good friends.
11. "He's uglier than the underside of a car"
Used to describe the less pleasant side of a situation.
12. "Hang up the cleats"
This phrase is used when someone passes away.
13. "The dwarf grew up on us!"
Used mainly by older people to point out how fast a child has grown.
14. "Talks even through their elbows"
One of the typical Colombian phrases, perfectly describing someone who talks a lot.
15. "God gives bread to those who have no teeth"
This is used when someone doesn’t appreciate what they have.
All these phrases and Colombian sayings are typical among locals and are part of everyday life. Do you know another one not on the list? Let us know!
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