carnal
Mexico, informal
The standard word is hermano. In Mexican slang carnal means a brother or a very close friend, and hermanito is the affectionate form.
Meaning: brother or close friend (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| carnal | Mexico, informal |
| hermano | everyday |
| hermanito | affectionate |
Carnal is used for real brothers and for friends who feel like family. Hermano also works as "bro" between friends in many countries.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Carnal is strongly Mexican and also used among Mexican Americans. In other countries people may not know it.
Did you know?
- The word carnal comes from carne (flesh), meaning someone of the same flesh and blood.
Examples in context
- Mi carnal me prestó su coche.My brother lent me his car.
- Hermano, cuenta conmigo.Bro, count on me.
- Mi hermanito cumple diez años.My little brother turns ten.
Example conversation
Luis and his friend Chuy talk in a garage in Guadalajara.
- LuisChuy, tú eres mi carnal.Chuy, you are my brother.
- ChuySiempre, cuenta conmigo.Always, count on me.
- LuisGracias, de verdad.Thanks, truly.
