Costa Rican Spanish

The official and primary language of Costa Rica is Spanish. Spanish was introduced to the region during the colonial period and has since become the language of government, education, media, and everyday communication. However, it's important to note that Costa Rica, like many countries, has its own unique regional dialect and accent. Costa Rican Spanish is often characterized by its clear pronunciation and moderate speed compared to other Spanish-speaking countries, and it has certain vocabulary and idiomatic expressions that are specific to the region. 

While Spanish is the dominant language, there are also smaller communities of speakers of other languages. Costa Rica is home to several indigenous groups, each with its own distinct language. These languages include Bribri, Cabécar, Maleku, Boruca, and others. Unfortunately, many of these indigenous languages are endangered, with only a limited number of speakers left. In the Limón province, which is located on the Caribbean coast, a variant of English-based Creole is spoken. This is due to the historical influence of Afro-Caribbean communities in this region. 

English is also widely spoken in certain regions, especially in tourist areas, major cities, and among the younger population. There is also a considerable presence of English loanwords, especially in relation to technology, consumer products, and urban slang.

Costa Rican Spanish has its own unique vocabulary, which includes words and expressions not commonly used in other Spanish-speaking countries. Here are some examples which you probably will encounter as a tourist:

• Pura vida: This is Costa Rica's unofficial motto and a commonly used expression that translates to 'pure life'. It encapsulates the country's laid-back and positive attitude. Pura Vida is used in many ways in everyday communication. It can be used as a positive reply to basically any question, but I think the most common way of use is when it is given as a reply to questions like 'how are you' or 'how are things going'. 

• Tico/Tica: These terms are used to refer to a Costa Rican man (Tico) or woman (Tica).

• Tiquicia: Is another name for Costa Rica. Formed when combining 'Tico' and '-icia', it literally means 'land of the Ticos',

• Mae: Pronounced as 'maa-e'. A popular term used in Costa Rica to refer to a friend or a person in a casual manner. It's similar to "dude" in English. In case you were wondering where the name of this website comes from 😁.

• Tuanis: This word means 'cool' or 'great'. It is often used to express approval or enthusiasm about something.

• Chepe: Is a common nickname for the name José. The nations capital San José is often referred to as 'Chepe'.

• Chiva: In Costa Rica, this term can refer to a bus, especially a colorful and decorated one used for tours. It can also mean 'cool' or 'awesome'.

• Upe: Pronounced something like 'Oeh-Peh' is commonly used as a shout when you've arrived at someone his/her house to let people know you are there. Many houses in Costa Rica have a gated or fenced entrance, and not always a doorbell. 

• Tico time: Refers to the relaxed concept of timekeeping in Costa Rica. It implies that things may not always start or happen exactly on time.

• Plata: Literary translates as 'silver' but is used to refer to money, which is common in more Spanish-speaking countries in the Americas. 

• Pulpería: A small neighborhood store or convenience store where you can find basic groceries, snacks, and other everyday items.

• Soda: Unlike in many other Spanish-speaking countries where 'soda' refers to a carbonated drink, in Costa Rica, a 'soda' is a small, local restaurant that typically serves affordable traditional food.

• Sodita: A smaller version of a soda, typically referring to a small food stand or kiosk that sells snacks and drinks.

• Gallo pinto: Costa Rica's traditional dish consisting of mixed fried rice and beans, accompanied by things like sausage, avocado, scrambled eggs, cheese, etc.

• Birra: This word is used to refer to beer. If you want to order a beer in Costa Rica, you can ask for una birra.

• Guaro: Short for 'aguardiente', it refers to a popular local alcoholic beverage made from sugar cane.