Caray
mild, Mexico
A mild Mexican way to say "damn" is Caray. Other common exclamations are Demonios and the stronger Maldita sea. It is also called Híjole.
Meaning: a mild exclamation of annoyance or surprise (interjection)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| Caray | mild, Mexico |
| Demonios | mild |
| Maldita sea | stronger |
| Híjole | surprise or concern, Mexico |
Use caray when something goes wrong or surprises you. Híjole is typical of Mexico and shows concern or an awkward situation, like "oh boy".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Caray, híjole and demonios are acceptable in family settings. Maldita sea is harsher.
Did you know?
- The word caray began as a softened form of a stronger word, which is why it is polite enough for most settings.
Examples in context
- ¡Caray, se me olvidaron las llaves!Damn, I forgot my keys!
- Híjole, se descompuso el carro.Oh boy, the car broke down.
- Maldita sea, llegué tarde.Damn it, I am late.
Example conversation
Octavio and his wife Rita notice a problem in front of their house in Culiacán.
- Octavio¡Caray, dejé las llaves adentro!Damn, I left the keys inside!
- RitaHíjole, ¿y ahora qué hacemos?Oh boy, what do we do now?
- OctavioVoy por la copia con mi hermano.I will get the spare from my brother.
