Learning how to say “chicken” in Spanish is a useful skill, whether you’re planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country, trying to expand your vocabulary, or simply curious about different languages. In this guide, we will provide you with both formal and informal ways to say “chicken” in Spanish. We will also include some regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Chicken” in Spanish
If you want to use a more formal or polite term for “chicken” in Spanish, consider the following words:
Gallina: This term specifically refers to a hen, which is a mature female chicken. It can be used in formal contexts.
Pollo: This is the most common and general term for “chicken” in Spanish. It can be used in formal situations, such as ordering at a restaurant or buying ingredients at a market.
Ave de corral: This phrase translates to “domestic fowl” and is a formal way to refer to chicken in a more generic sense. It can be used in formal discussions or settings.
Informal Ways to Say “Chicken” in Spanish
If you’re among friends or in a casual setting, you can use the following informal terms to refer to “chicken” in Spanish:
Pollo: This term is not only used formally but is also commonly used in everyday conversations. It is the go-to word for “chicken” in Spanish.
Pollito: This affectionate term translates to “little chicken” and is often used informally, especially when referring to smaller or younger chickens.
Pavo: Although it primarily refers to “turkey,” it is also used informally in some regions of Spanish-speaking countries to talk about chicken. However, we suggest using it with caution as its primary meaning is “turkey.”
Regional Variations
While the words mentioned above are generally understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, there are some regional variations worth noting:
- Pollo asado: In some Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, “pollo asado” is the preferred term for grilled or roasted chicken.
- Broaster: In some parts of Latin America, particularly the Caribbean, “broaster” is used to refer to fried chicken, influenced by English-language fast food culture.
- Pollo a la brasa: This term is commonly used in Peru and other South American countries to refer to rotisserie-style chicken.
Tips and Examples
Here are some tips and examples to help you understand how to use these words in context:
1. Formal Examples:
Example 1: Me gustaría ordenar una pierna de pollo asado, por favor. (I would like to order a piece of roasted chicken, please.)
Example 2: Las gallinas ponen huevos. (Hens lay eggs.)
2. Informal Examples:
Example 1: ¿Vamos a comer pollo asado hoy? (Are we going to eat roast chicken today?)
Example 2: ¡Mira esos pollitos tan adorables en el corral! (Look at those adorable chicks in the coop!)
3. Regional Variation Example:
Example 1: Vamos a comprar un pollo a la brasa para la cena. (Let’s buy a rotisserie chicken for dinner.)
Example 2: ¡Quiero probar ese broaster de pollo! (I want to try that fried chicken!)
Remember to use these words according to the context and formality of your situation. Now that you have a better understanding of how to say “chicken” in Spanish, you can confidently talk about this delicious poultry in various Spanish-speaking environments!
We hope this guide has been helpful to you. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
