If you’ve spent any time in Costa Rica—or even just planned a visit—you’ve probably come across the phrase “Pura Vida.” But that’s just the beginning. Costa Rican Spanish is full of colorful slang, playful expressions, and regionally unique phrases that locals use to bring flavor and friendliness to everyday conversations. Whether you’re coming for a week or staying for a season, getting a handle on these terms can go a long way toward connecting with the culture—and the people.
Here’s a light-hearted guide to Costa Rican slang, or as locals might call it, “Tico talk.”
1. Pura Vida
This classic phrase literally means “pure life,” but it’s used to express everything from “hello” and “goodbye” to “no worries” and “life’s good.”
Example:
“How are you?”
“Pura vida, mae.”
2. Mae
This one’s essential. Mae means “dude,” “bro,” or even “guy/girl” in general conversation. It’s gender-neutral, super casual, and you’ll hear it constantly.
Example:
“Mae, did you see those waves today?”
3. Tuanis
Pronounced too-ah-nees, it’s Costa Rica’s answer to “cool” or “awesome.”
Example:
“That beach was tuanis, we have to go back!”
4. Diay
This is the Swiss Army knife of Costa Rican expressions. It can mean “well,” “so,” “huh,” or just be a filler word when you’re thinking of what to say next.
Example:
“Diay, I didn’t know they were coming, so I left.”
5. ¡Qué chiva!
This means “how cool!” or “that’s awesome!” and is used to express excitement or admiration.
Example:
“¡Qué chiva tu carro!” – “Your car is so cool!”
6. Estar en todas
Used to compliment someone who’s on top of things, smart, or ready for anything.
Example:
“Ask María, she’s en todas.”
7. Güila / Güilo
These refer to kids or teenagers (sometimes playfully referring to someone acting childish).
Example:
“Those güilas are always playing fútbol in the street.”
8. Aguevado
Feeling down or disappointed? You’re aguevado.
Example:
“It rained all day—qué aguevado.”
9. Jupa
This one means “head”—slang-style.
Example:
“Ouch, I hit my jupa on the doorframe!”
10. Rajado
Used when something is unbelievable or intense (either good or bad).
Example:
“That storm last night was rajado.”
11. Hacerse el maje
This means to play dumb or pretend you didn’t notice something.
Example:
“He didn’t pay for his drink and just se hizo el maje.”
12. Tico/Tica
This isn’t slang exactly, but it’s how Costa Ricans refer to themselves. Tico for men, Tica for women. It comes from the Costa Rican tendency to add “-ico” as a diminutive.
Example:
“We’re heading to a local spot—owned by a Tico family.”
Embracing the Lingo
Don’t worry about getting every phrase perfect. Costa Ricans are famously friendly and patient, and they love when visitors make the effort to speak their language—even if it’s just a few slangy expressions. Peppering your Spanish with a few ticosmos (Tico-isms) is a great way to connect, get a laugh, or simply feel more immersed in the rhythm of life here.
And if you mess up? Just laugh, say “Pura vida,” and try again.
Ready to Try Out Your Tico Talk in Real Life?
There’s no better way to learn than to live it. Whether you’re wandering through farmers markets, grabbing a smoothie from a beachside shack, or chatting with your tour guide after a volcano hike, Costa Rican slang is your secret key to blending in and feeling at home. Here’s another great resource from Baselang.
