Speak Like a « Tico »: 10 Spanish Phrases
You Should Know in Costa Rica

The most important thing when traveling—especially in a welcoming country like Costa Rica—is connecting with the local people, which happens through sharing, exchanging ideas, and, of course… language!

So here are a few phrases that will help you speak like a local.

Yes, as you’ve probably already figured out, the nickname for Costa Ricans is“Tico”(and“Tica”for Costa Rican women). This is a nod to the Ticos’ frequent use of the diminutive suffix“-ico,”as in“unmomentoico” (a little moment). These diminutive forms set Costa Rica apart from other Latin American countries, where you’re more likely to hear endings like “-ito” (“un cafecito,” “un perrito”).

The expression“Pura Vida,” which literally means“pure life,”is used daily by Ticos. When you ask someone how they’re doing, they’ll usually reply,“Pura Vida,” but the expression is also used to say“hello,”“goodbye,”“thank you,” and“you’re welcome.”

“Pura Vida”is much more than just a phrase—it’s a philosophy of life that celebrates gratitude and the joy of living.

“Cómo está, mae?”,“Pura Vida , mae”…

“Mae”is certainly one of the most common slang words in Costa Rica and is used much like“dude”in English. It can be used to refer to both men and women.

Are you used to saying“de nada”(meaning“you’re welcome”) and“encantado”(meaning“nice to meet you”)? You must have learned Spanish in Spain!

In Costa Rica, use“con gusto”or“con mucho gusto”instead in these two situations.

This word is used to describe something that’s “good” or “cool”:“Qué chiva! ”

When you want to describe something that’s “really great” or “extraordinary,” use the superlative:“chivisima”!

The Ticos, known for their zest for life, have many expressions to describe the positive things in life!

“Tuanis”is used to say that something is of very high quality, or to describe a pleasant person.

“Diay”is a somewhat “catch-all” word that you’ll hear very often in Costa Rica. It can serve as a filler word (“well,” “so”), be used as an affirmation (“of course”), or express anger or surprise.

“Upe”—or rather,“upeeeeeeeee”—is the expression a Tico uses when knocking on a door. This expression is said to date back to the Spanish colonial period. In Nicoya, during the festival of the “Virgen de Guadalupe,” locals would go from house to house asking for a contribution for the upcoming festival and would say:“Una ayudita para nuestra Patrona la Señorita de Guadaluuuuuupeeee”(A little help for our patron saint, the Virgin of Guadaluuuuupeeeeeee).

So, are you ready to talk to a Tico?

The Terra Caribea Team challenges you!