cuate
Mexican slang
A buddy in Mexico is a cuate. The standard word is amigo, and compa, short for compañero or compadre, is also common among friends.
Meaning: a friend (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| cuate | Mexican slang |
| amigo | standard |
| compa | casual short form |
Say mi cuate for a close friend or los cuates for a group of pals. It is informal and friendly. The word is used widely in central Mexico.
Which one should you use?
Another Mexican friend word is carnal, which feels closer, almost like a brother. Cuate also exists as a slang for twin in some regions.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The word cuate comes from the Nahuatl word coatl, meaning "snake" and also "twin".
Did you know?
- The Mexican word cuate is from Nahuatl cōātl and has been part of Mexican Spanish for centuries.
Examples in context
- Voy al cine con mis cuates.I am going to the movies with my buddies.
- Ese compa me ayudó mucho.That buddy helped me a lot.
- Es mi mejor amigo.He is my best friend.
Example conversation
Two friends, Tomás and Beto, make plans for Friday.
- TomásCuate, ¿vamos al partido el viernes?Buddy, shall we go to the game on Friday?
- BetoVa. Yo llevo las chelas.Sure. I will bring the beers.
- TomásPerfecto, nos vemos.Perfect, see you.
