Chapter 5: The Past

A fixed playful expression used to tease someone who has been secretive about good news or a relationship. The diminutive -ito on 'callado' softens the accusation and adds affection or mock reproach.

'Papanatas' is a mild, slightly old-fashioned insult meaning a gullible or foolish person. 'Vaya' here is an exclamation of ironic or amused judgement, not movement.

A very common everyday exclamation of surprise. 'Dar un susto' is the standard idiom for startling someone; 'qué' intensifies the reaction.

A fixed idiomatic expression. Literally 'not clean wheat', it implies a person or situation has hidden dishonest qualities. Often used as a warning.

A specific and culturally embedded drink order at a bar. Ordering 'un carajillo' is entirely normal in everyday bar speech and carries no negative connotation.

Used to express approval of someone's behaviour, often by a person in a position of authority or as friendly encouragement. Slightly patronising depending on context.

A very common expression signalling awareness of social scrutiny. Used to warn that a behaviour may attract unwanted attention or rumour.

Literally 'to make good crumbs', this fixed expression describes two people getting along well or developing a good rapport. Common and entirely positive in tone.