naca
/naka/from spelling rules
naca is the Spanish word for tacky in Mexico.
The term is a slang adjective used to describe someone or something as tacky, low-class or lacking refinement. Note that naca can be considered derogatory.
Which one should you use?
The word changes based on the gender and number of the person or object being described.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
This is a slang term and can be considered derogatory.
Is it said differently in some regions?
This term is most commonly used in Mexican Spanish slang.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, the word changes its ending to match the subject: use naco when referring to a male or a masculine noun and use nacas for the plural feminine form.
How do you pronounce it?
/naka/
Did you know?
- The term naco is widely believed to be a corruption of Totonaco, referring to an indigenous group from the Gulf Coast of Mexico. This links the modern slang for 'tacky' to historical ethnic prejudices.
- In Mexico, some people have reclaimed the word by using the phrase naco pero con dinero, which means 'tacky but with money'. It describes someone who has gained wealth but has not acquired the social graces to match it.
- In some contexts, the term has been used as a way to gatekeep 'correct' way of speaking, labeling certain regional accents or slang as naco.
Examples in context
- Esa decoración me parece muy naca.I think that decoration is very tacky.
- No seas naca con esa ropa.Don't be tacky with that clothing.
- Su forma de hablar es un poco naca.Her way of speaking is a bit low-class.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are looking at a cheap-looking souvenir shop.
- ElenaMira ese adorno, es muy naca.Look at that ornament, it's very tacky.
- JavierTienes razón, Elena, no es elegante.You're right, Elena, it's not elegant.
- ElenaPrefiero algo más sofisticado.I prefer something more sophisticated.
- JavierYo también, busquemos en otra tienda.Me too, let's look in another store.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
