Language (speaking Spanish)

Spanish is spoken almost everywhere in Nicaragua, except for some areas on the country’s Atlantic Coast (actually the Caribbean coast), which was colonized by the British. Creole English is spoken there, as well as some indigenous languages that are in danger of extinction.

In Nicaraguan Spanish, the letter “s” is silent at the ends of many words. For example, if you ask someone how well she thinks you speak Spanish, she might answer “mas o menos,” (“more or less”), but it will actually be pronounced “ma’ o meno’.”

Common phrases

Perdido como un perro en procesión- Literally, “lost like a dog in a parade.” Here is an example of this expression you will NOT hear!  “El grupo SST esta perdido como un perro en procesión.”

Barriga llena, corazón contento- Or, “stomach full, heart content.” A Nicaraguan nacatamale or two will help you understand this phrase.

A Dios rogando y con el mazo dando- Translated this means, “Begging from God and hitting with a mallet.” This is used to ask whether someone who believes in God is really practicing what they preach.
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