Want this as a printable cheat sheet?
Download the Peruvian Slang PDF here 🇵🇪

Want to practice learning the words?
You can learn this list on Memrise here.


The Peruvian accent is one of the clearest and easiest to understand in Latin America 🇵🇪

Peruvians tend to speak:

Politeness is highly valued in Perú, which is why you’ll hear loads of:

used to make speech sound warmer and friendlier.

Peruvian slang is also heavily influenced by:

the indigenous language of the Andes.

And interestingly, there are also quite a few English influences mixed in there too 👀

Let’s take a look at some of the most common:

This comes from:

which means:

in Quechua.

e.j Vamos a mi jato
Let’s go to my house

Very common in Perú.

e.j Ese pata es buena gente
That guy’s a good dude

Used all across Latin America, but also very common in Perú 🇵🇪

e.j Tu idea está chévere
Your idea is awesome

The currency in Perú is:

But:

is used casually to mean:

e.j No tengo lucas
I don’t have money

Interestingly related to the English word:

Like someone you support or back.

e.j Oye, causa, ¿todo bien?
Hey bro, all good?

Very common reaction phrase.

You’ll also hear this in:

e.j ¡Pucha, se me olvidó!
Damn, I forgot!

Used all over Latin America.

e.j Estoy buscando chamba
I’m looking for work

Classic Peruvian slang 😎

e.j Vamos a jamear algo
Let’s go eat something

This comes from the English word:

But in Perú it evolved into:

e.j Voy a tomar lonche en casa de mi abuela
I’m going to have tea at my Grandma’s house

Learning a few words of:

helps you instantly sound more natural with locals.

So next time you’re in Perú:

Oh, and enjoy the food.

If I can help you in anyway during your Spanish journey, send me a message.

You can find some free Youtube videos here.

Un abrazo,

Harrison

Language for living, not just learning.