Getting to Chile, I was prepared to be completely hit by culture shock. On arrival, not only was I aware that there were many Spanish words I didn’t know, but there were additionally Chilean-specific words that I had never heard before. First, a common word for “cool” or “good” here is Bacán. This is said frequently as an affirmation. Because we hear it so often from our host families, our professors, and other people we encounter here in Chile, many people in my group have adapted the word. Rico is used all the time, for a variety of different things. I often hear it in relation to food being delicious, but it can also be used to describe something that is good or an attractive person. I have started saying it when I really like the food my host mom has prepared, “muy rico!”
Besides uniquely Chilean slang that I had previously never heard, the Chilean accent has also been an adjustment. The last couple letters of words or phrases are often dropped. For example, it is common to say “gracia” instead of “gracias” and “buen dia” in place of “buenos dias”. It is a bit confusing going from proper Spanish learned in the class room to the colloquiums of Chile, but I am doing my best to adjust. It has definitely been important for me to remember that if I don’t know something, all I need to do is ask. Making mistakes is a big part of the process, and while exhausting at times, I feel myself getting more comfortable little by little. All of this newness is a fun challenge.