mamá
standard
The everyday word is mamá, and mami is more affectionate. Slang includes la jefa, literally "the boss", and in Argentina mi vieja, literally "my old lady", which is warm and not rude.
Meaning: mother (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| mamá | standard |
| la jefa | slang |
| mami | affectionate |
| mi vieja | slang, Argentina |
Slang is used when talking about your mother with friends. You would not usually use it to speak to her directly.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Vieja can sound rude when used about someone else's mother, so it fits best with mi.
Did you know?
- La jefa and el jefe are common slang for mom and dad in many countries.
Examples in context
- Mi vieja cocina riquísimo.My mom cooks great.
- La jefa dijo que no.Mom said no.
- Mami, ¿me ayudas?Mommy, can you help me?
Example conversation
Joaquín tells his friend Santi why he cannot go out in Rosario.
- JoaquínNo puedo salir, mi vieja me necesita.I cannot go out, my mom needs me.
- SantiDale, no hay problema.Sure, no problem.
- JoaquínSalgo mañana.I will go out tomorrow.
