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aguas means careful — a common term in Mexican Slang. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 19, 2025

🌶️ Mexican Slang

aguas

interjection • /[AH-was]/

careful

Example:

¡Aguas! Hay un hoyo ahí.

Careful! There’s a hole there.

🧠 What does aguas mean?

This interjection is a common and informal warning in Mexico, used to alert someone to potential danger, a surprise, or a situation that requires caution. It is often used in contexts where someone might be about to step into trouble, get hurt, or encounter something unexpected. The literal translation of the word is 'waters,' but its idiomatic usage as an exclamation of caution is entirely distinct.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¡Aguas con el escalón que está roto!
    Watch out for the broken step!
  • Me dijo que tuviera aguas porque su jefe estaba de mal humor.
    He told me to be careful because his boss was in a bad mood.
  • ¡Aguas! Ahí viene el perro.
    Watch out! Here comes the dog.
  • Ten aguas con lo que dices, no sabes quién te puede oír.
    Be careful with what you say, you don't know who might be listening.

💡 Did You Know?

The origin of 'aguas' as a warning is thought to stem from historical practices in cities where people would empty chamber pots from windows, shouting '¡Aguas!' to alert those below. Over time, it evolved into a general exclamation of caution.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "aguas"

Synonyms: cuidado, ojo, atención
Opposites: descuido, imprudencia

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'careful' in Spanish?
While 'ten cuidado' is a standard way to say 'be careful,' 'aguas' is a very common and informal Mexican interjection used to convey the same meaning of caution or warning.
How do you pronounce 'aguas' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is 'AH-gwahs'. The 'a' sounds are like the 'a' in 'father', and the 'gu' sounds like the 'g' in 'go'.
How do you use 'aguas' in a sentence?
'Aguas' is used as an interjection, typically shouted or said quickly to alert someone. It can stand alone, or it can be followed by 'con' and the thing to be careful of, as in '¡Aguas con eso!'
What is the English translation of 'aguas'?
In its idiomatic, slang usage, 'aguas' translates to 'watch out,' 'be careful,' or 'heads up'.
Does 'aguas' change for gender or number?
As an interjection, 'aguas' does not change for gender or number. It is used in its plural form regardless of the situation.
Is 'aguas' common in everyday Spanish?
'Aguas' is very common in everyday spoken Spanish, particularly in Mexico. It is considered informal slang.
Does 'aguas' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, its primary usage as an interjection meaning 'watch out' is a slang term. The literal meaning of 'waters' does not apply here, making it a distinct slang expression.
Is 'aguas' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
'Aguas' as an interjection meaning 'watch out' is predominantly used in Mexico. While other Spanish-speaking regions have their own ways of expressing caution, this specific term is strongly associated with Mexican slang.

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