Learning a new language is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary; it’s also about understanding the nuances of daily communication, which often includes slang and informal phrases. Catalan, a language spoken in Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, and parts of Sardinia and France, is rich with colloquial expressions that can make communication more colorful and natural. Below are some Catalan slang words and informal phrases that can give you a taste of the real language as it’s used in casual conversation.

Vaig a saque
Meaning: I’ll do my best or I’ll go for it.
Encara que sigui difícil, vaig a saque per aconseguir aquest treball.

Collons!
Meaning: Damn! It conveys surprise or strong emotions. It can be seen as vulgar or informal.
He aprovat l’examen! Collons, no m’ho esperava!

És molt trempat
Meaning: Someone is clever or smart.
El noi que va resoldre el problema és molt trempat.

Quina canya!
Meaning: That’s awesome/cool! Used to express something one finds impressive.
Has vist el concert? Quina canya era el guitarrista!

Flipar
Meaning: To be amazed. It can also take on the meaning of being on drugs, but context usually makes it clear.
Vaig flipar en colors quan vaig veure la Sagrada Familia per primera vegada.

Fer la mà
Meaning: To help out or give a hand.
Si necessites ajuda amb la mudança, jo et feré la mà.

Anar de cul
Meaning: To be in a rush or to do something hastily.
Vaig anar de cul tot el matí per acabar el projecte a temps.

Pasta gansa
Meaning: A lot of money.
Aquell cotxe deu costar una pasta gansa!

Vaig picat
Meaning: To be tired or done for.
Després de caminar tot el dia, vaig picat.

Està petat
Meaning: It’s full or crowded.
El bar està petat, anem a buscar-ne un altre?

No puc amb la meva ànima
Meaning: I’m exhausted or I can barely move.
Després de la marató, no podia amb la meva ànima.

Anar de franc
Meaning: To get something for free.
No pagues res, aquesta volta va de franc.

Em sap greu
Meaning: I’m sorry or I feel bad about it.
Em sap greu, però no podré venir demà a la teva festa.

Sortir de festa
Meaning: To go out partying.
Aquest cap de setmana volem sortir de festa per Barcelona.

Using these slang and informal expressions can help you sound more like a native speaker when conversing in Catalan. Remember that context is key, and while these phrases can add flavor to your speech, some are best used among friends or in casual settings. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to try new expressions as you continue your Catalan language journey. ¡Vinga, vaig a saque! (Come on, I’ll go for it!)