In Colombia, beer holds a special place in the country’s culture and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re visiting Colombia and want to order a cold beer or simply want to expand your vocabulary, it’s useful to know how to say “beer” in both formal and informal settings. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to express “beer” in Colombia, along with tips, examples, and even regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say Beer
When you find yourself in a formal situation, such as a business meeting or a formal event, it’s important to use the appropriate language. Here are some formal ways to say “beer” in Colombia:
- Cerveza: The most common and widely understood term for “beer” in Colombia is “cerveza.” This term is used in formal settings, and it is recognized universally across the country. For example, you can say, “Me gustaría una cerveza, por favor” (I would like a beer, please).
- Bebida alcohólica: If you are looking for a more generic term for alcoholic beverages, you can use the term “bebida alcohólica.” Although this term is less specific to beer, it can be used formally when referring to beer or any other alcoholic drink.
- Bebida fermentada: Another formal way to refer to beer in Colombia is “bebida fermentada” (fermented beverage). This term is less commonly used, but it accurately describes the process of beer production.
Informal Ways to Say Beer
Now let’s dive into some informal ways to say “beer” in Colombia. These terms are commonly used in casual conversations, among friends, or in relaxed settings:
- Pola: One of the most popular slang terms for “beer” in Colombia is “pola.” This term is widely understood and used throughout the country, especially among younger generations. For example, you can say, “Vamos a tomar unas polas” (Let’s have some beers).
- Chela: “Chela” is another informal term for “beer” in Colombia, particularly in certain regions. Although not as widespread as “pola,” you may come across this term when socializing with locals. It’s more commonly used in the central and western regions of the country.
- Fría: If you want to be even more informal when referring to beer, you can simply say “fría,” which translates to “cold.” This term is often used among friends to indicate grabbing a cold beer. For example, you can say, “Vamos a tomar una fría” (Let’s have a cold one).
Tips for Ordering Beer in Colombia
Now that you know the formal and informal ways to say “beer” in Colombia, here are some tips to help you order beer with confidence:
- Politeness: When in a formal setting, always use “cerveza” to avoid sounding too casual. It’s important to show respect by using the appropriate language.
- Regional Differences: Keep in mind that certain regions may have their own unique slang terms for “beer.” While “pola” and “chela” are widely understood across Colombia, it’s good to be aware of regional variations if you’re traveling to a specific area.
- Body Language: When ordering a beer in a bar or restaurant, you can simply raise your index finger to indicate “one beer.” Colombians are familiar with this gesture.
Examples in Context
Let’s illustrate the usage of these phrases with some examples in different contexts:
“Hola, camarero. Quisiera pedir una cerveza bien fría, por favor.” (Hello, waiter. I would like to order a cold beer, please.) [Formal]
“¿Vamos a la tienda a comprar unas polas para el partido?” (Shall we go to the store to buy some beers for the game?) [Informal]
“Me gusta probar las diferentes chelas de cada región que visito.” (I enjoy trying the different beers from each region I visit.) [Informal – mentioning “chela” as a regional variation]
Conclusion
Now you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to say “beer” in both formal and informal ways in Colombia. Remember, “cerveza” is the go-to formal term, while “pola” and “chela” are more commonly used in casual settings. It’s always helpful to be familiar with these terms to comfortably navigate social situations or ask for a refreshing drink. So, whether you prefer a formal glass of “cerveza” or “unas polas” with friends, cheers (¡Salud!) to your Colombian beer experience!
