"Am I really Cuban if I don't say 'asere'?" This question was posed by young Cuban Malia Llovet at the start of a video shared on TikTok. Llovet reflected on why she doesn't use this common word among many born on the island. Responding to a user's comment, she shared her perspective on why she avoids 'asere', who she believes uses it more frequently, and her preferred term for addressing a group of people.
Malia Llovet's Personal Reflection
"Folks, I was walking and had an existential thought. Not all Cubans say 'asere'. It's an identity crisis. Am I truly Cuban if I don't say 'asere'? Look, for those unfamiliar with the term, 'asere' is used to refer to another person. It can be a greeting like 'asere qué volá', 'asere what are we going to do', directed at a friend or someone else. Now I realize why I don't use 'asere'," Llovet explained before delving into her personal context.
"When I was raised, it wasn't well-regarded. Girls from good homes like mine didn't say it. Maybe that's why I don’t use 'asere'. So, know that there are Cubans who don't say 'asere' and instead use 'caballero'," she concluded.
User reactions were swift, sparking lively debate in the comments: "I don't use it either and I don't eat ripe plantains"; "I also say 'caballero' and my female colleagues tell me we're not buddies, we're women"; "I never use 'asere'"; "I never said 'asere' in Cuba; I always said 'caballero' because my grandmother never let me say 'asere'," shared some.
Others weighed in with varied opinions: "I use both because I'm from central Cuba"; "I don't say either, I'm out of both teams"; "Caballero is more polite"; "I don't say it either".
The controversy over the use of 'asere' versus 'caballero' has sparked an intriguing debate about Cuban identity and the differences within the island and among Cubans who have moved abroad.
What about you? Do you use 'asere' or 'caballero'? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.
The Debate Over 'Asere' and 'Caballero'
The discussion about whether to use 'asere' or 'caballero' has raised several questions about Cuban identity and cultural expressions. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
Why do some Cubans avoid using the word 'asere'?
Some Cubans avoid using 'asere' because it may not be viewed as polite or appropriate in certain social or familial contexts.
What does 'asere' mean in Cuban slang?
'Asere' is a colloquial term used to refer to another person, often used in greetings or casual conversation among friends.
Is there a regional difference in the use of 'asere' and 'caballero' in Cuba?
Yes, usage can vary regionally, with some areas of Cuba favoring 'asere' and others preferring 'caballero'.