The Colombian TikToker Eliana Uribe (@eli_u22) has become a viral sensation after revealing the Cuban slang she can't stop using since dating her Cuban boyfriend. Her video, which has garnered over 1,900 likes, humorously showcases how her relationship has led her to adopt some of Cuba's most distinctive expressions, sparking laughter and reactions on TikTok.
Among the phrases that have stuck with her are "ño," "viste," and "estoy partida/estoy fachada," which she shares with a chuckle. Referring to the well-known "ño," a Cuban expression of shock or surprise, she says, "It's like it won't leave me; it's just part of me now." She notes that "viste," another favorite phrase, has also become part of her vocabulary, though she's unsure if it's pronounced with or without the "s." Lastly, she enjoys saying "estoy partida" to express that she's hungry, even if she doesn't use it as often.
The cultural exchange has prompted a flurry of comments, with the Cuban community playfully engaging with her "new vocabulary." One user joked, "Ñoooo, the papers hahaha," while another joined the fun, suggesting, "You can also say 'estoy bola por la caja el pan.'" Another celebrated the cultural connection by stating, "Love knows no language, keep going." Proud of their slang, Cubans pointed out that she was missing several expressions from the island's repertoire. "It's 'vite' without the 's' or nothing," one clarified. Another teased, "Surprised you haven't picked up 'pinga,'" amidst laughter. Others humorously commented on the cultural "conquest": "Cubans stealing Colombian girls" and "The beybis are ours."
Some celebrated the cultural exchange. One user noted, "That's the beauty of our cultures, see?" while a Cuban woman added, "You Colombians speak so cool, says a Cuban." They even joke about the "Cuban level" Eliana has reached: "You're already a Cuban cousin," and "Little by little, once you start saying 'pinga,' you can collect your Cuban residency."
Eliana also mentioned that her boyfriend has picked up Colombian expressions, admitting that sometimes their slang differences are so vast that "we don't understand what we're saying, but we're learning new languages." This cultural fusion between Colombia and Cuba has brought both communities closer, finding in language another way to laugh, share, and celebrate love.