One common way to say "pig" in Spanish slang, particularly in South America, is chancho.
Spanish, like any language, has a variety of terms for animals, and "pig" is no exception, with different words carrying various levels of formality, regional specificity, or slang connotations.
Common Slang and Informal Terms for 'Pig' in Spanish
While the most standard and widely recognized term for "pig" is cerdo, several other words are used informally or as slang, often depending on the region or the specific nuance intended.
Chancho
The term chancho is widely used across several South American countries to refer to a pig. If you hear "chancho," it is likely you are in a country such as Argentina, Chile, Peru, or Uruguay. In these regions, both "cerdo" and "chancho" are used to refer to the animal, though "cerdo" remains more commonly used in general contexts. "Chancho" often carries a more informal or colloquial feel.
- Example Usage:
- "Comimos lechón de chancho en la cena." (We ate roast piglet for dinner.)
- "¡Eres un chancho!" (You're a pig/dirty person! - colloquial, referring to a person).
Cochino
Another very common informal term that can be considered slang or colloquial, depending on context, is cochino. While "cochino" literally translates to "dirty" or "filthy," it is frequently used to refer to a pig, often implying a dirty or gluttonous animal. It's also widely used as an adjective or noun to describe a person who is unclean, greedy, or behaves in a slovenly manner.
- Example Usage:
- "Ese niño es un cochino, siempre está jugando en el barro." (That kid is a pig/dirty, always playing in the mud.)
- "¡Qué cochino es tu cuarto!" (How dirty your room is!)
Marrano
The term marrano also refers to a pig or hog and can sometimes be used informally or with a slightly pejorative connotation. It's less of a general slang term for the animal itself than "chancho" or "cochino," but it's part of the informal lexicon.
Summary of Terms
| Spanish Term | Usage/Meaning | Region(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Chancho | Pig (informal/colloquial) | Primarily South America (Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay) |
| Cochino | Pig, dirty person/thing (informal/slang) | Widespread |
| Marrano | Pig, hog (can be informal/pejorative) | Widespread |
| Cerdo | Pig (standard, general term) | Widespread |
Nuances and Context
The choice of word often depends on the specific region, the level of formality, and the implied meaning. Using slang or informal terms can add color to communication and often conveys a particular feeling, whether it's familiarity, disdain, or simply a regional preference.
