compas
/kompas/from spelling rules
compas is the Spanish word for buddies.
compas is a slang term used to refer to close friends or companions.
Which one should you use?
the singular form is compa, which refers to a single buddy or mate.
Is it said differently in some regions?
compas is most commonly associated with Mexican Spanish and various Latin American dialects. In Mexico, you may also encounter the colloquial terms cuate or valedor as equivalents.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of this word is compa.
How do you pronounce it?
/kompas/
Did you know?
- The word compa is a shortened version of compadre, which literally refers to the father of one's godchild. In many cultures, this creates a spiritual kinship that is considered as strong as a blood relation.
- In some regions, compas is used as a gender-neutral term, allowing a speaker to address a mixed group of friends regardless of their biological sex.
- Depending on the tone and context, calling a stranger compa can be a way to establish an instant, friendly rapport or a way to signal a shared social class.
Examples in context
- Oye, compa, ¿vienes con nosotros al partido de fútbol?Hey, mate, are you coming with us to the football game?
- Voy al cine con mis compas.I am going to the cinema with my compas.
- Mis compas me ayudaron mucho.My compas helped me a lot.
- ¡Qué onda, compas!What's up, compas!
Example conversation
Mateo and María are meeting up at a cafe.
- MateoHola, María, ¿vienes con tus compas?Hi, María, are you coming with your compas?
- MaríaNo, hoy vengo sola, Mateo.No, I am coming alone today, Mateo.
- MateoEstá bien, sentémonos a platicar.That's fine, let's sit down and chat.
- MaríaMe parece perfecto.That sounds perfect to me.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
