Planting the Flag

Extremely common in everyday Argentine speech. Refers to a physical mess, a chaotic situation, or interpersonal drama.

Very common expression. Literally 'to throw vibe'. Describes the act of showing romantic or sexual interest in someone.

Usually appears in the negative ('no darle bola a alguien') meaning to ignore someone or dismiss their advances. Also used positively: 'le dio bola' = she/he responded/showed interest.

From 'pegote' (sticky thing). Describes someone who spends a lot of time close to another person or group, sometimes with a slightly judgmental undertone.

Used as a compliment to describe someone who is very skilled or impressive. Often said with warmth and enthusiasm.

Describes a person who talks themselves up or pretends to be more capable/honest than they are. Can be affectionate or critical depending on tone.

Idiomatic expression meaning to learn something through difficult personal experience rather than in an easy or gradual way.

The prefix 're-' is a highly productive intensifier in Argentine Rioplatense Spanish, stackable onto adjectives and adverbs. 'Recontento' = very happy. Other examples: rebién, relindo, remalo.