The 9 Colombian phrases foreigners love the most, according to AI

Expressions full of local flavor, warmth, and playfulness are part of the charm that most surprises and entertains foreigners who visit the country or who live with Colombians abroad . Whether due to their rhythm, their double meaning, or their difficulty in translation, these expressions are part of the country's identity. And the truth is that artificial intelligence (AI) has become a very valuable tool for identifying typically Colombian phrases. that most appeal to and arouse curiosity among foreign visitors.

According to ChatGPT, the following expressions that convey Colombian identity are the most emphasized by foreigners:

1) ¡Qué nota!: Used to say something is great, cool, or fun. It sounds simple, but foreigners love its positive energy.

2) "De una vez!": Expresses immediate decision or straightforward approval. Perfect for those who value practicality... although they may not understand what it means at first.

3) Está muy berraco (It's very tough): It can mean something difficult or someone very strong. They're intrigued by its double meaning and the force with which it's spoken.

4) ¡Qué mamera! (What a pain! ): Used to express annoyance or laziness. Many people quickly adopt this phrase because of its unique sound and because it doesn't have an exact translation.

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5) ¡Hágale, pues! (Go ahead! ): This is an enthusiastic invitation to do something. Foreigners use it with pleasure, although they don't always know in what context.

6) Don't give papaya: a Colombian classic that fascinates because of its preventive meaning (not exposing yourself unnecessarily) and because of how surreal it sounds to an outsider.

7) ¡Quiubo! : a contraction of "what's up?" It's an informal way of greeting that foreigners find amusing because it seems so unexpected.

8) Estar tragado: a very Colombian way of saying someone is in love. Tender and funny, it's often surprisingly graphic.

9) "Se le tengo el champú" (The shampoo ran): to say that someone has lost their mind or is disoriented. It's a favorite for its humor and originality.

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The Colombian expression that most confuses foreigners

Among all the phrases that win over visitors, there's one that completely baffles them : "Qué pena con usted!" (What a shame with you!) As an article published by BBC News Mundo points out , at first glance it seems like a sad apology, but it's actually a very Colombian expression of courtesy used to ask for something, politely decline, or soften bad news. Far from referring to pain or suffering, as in other Spanish-speaking countries, in Colombia "pena" usually means shame or annoyance, and is part of a deeply cultural linguistic strategy: to appear attentive, respectful, and avoid direct confrontations. Whether it's to ask for a favor in an office or to apologize for not having coffee, this phrase encapsulates a very Colombian characteristic that experts associate with Catholic tradition, colonial legacy, and a verbal courtesy that surprises—and sometimes disconcerts—those arriving from abroad. Although it may seem like an exaggerated apology, in Colombia it's a common way to soften everyday interactions, especially in service contexts or bureaucratic procedures. And for many foreigners, understanding its true meaning is a first step toward understanding the Colombian communication style: friendly, indirect, and deeply respectful.