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

📅 Published: January 5, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

lata

noun • /[LA-ta]/

nuisance

Example:

No quiero darte lata.

I don’t want to be a nuisance.

🧠 What does lata mean?

In Mexican slang, "lata" refers to a person, situation, or task that is bothersome, annoying, or a nuisance. It conveys a sense of exasperation or mild irritation with something that causes trouble or is tedious to deal with. It can describe someone who is constantly complaining, a difficult problem, or a chore that is particularly unpleasant.

📚 Extra examples

  • Ese vecino es una lata con sus ruidos.
    That neighbor is a nuisance with his noises.
  • Tener que hacer este trámite burocrático es una lata.
    Having to do this bureaucratic procedure is a nuisance.
  • No seas lata y déjame en paz.
    Don't be a nuisance and leave me alone.
  • La espera en el aeropuerto se hizo una lata.
    The wait at the airport became a nuisance.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'lata' in standard Spanish refers to a metal can, its slang usage in Mexico to mean 'nuisance' highlights how words can evolve and develop distinct meanings in different regions and contexts.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "lata"

Synonyms: molestia, fastidio, pesadez, complicación, problema
Opposites: alivio, conveniencia, ayuda, solución, facilidad

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'nuisance' in Spanish?
While "molestia" or "fastidio" are common translations for nuisance, in Mexican slang, "lata" is used to describe a bothersome person or situation.
How do you pronounce 'lata' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is "LAH-tah." The 'l' is pronounced like the English 'l,' the 'a' sounds are like the 'a' in 'father,' and the 't' is a soft 't,' similar to the English 't' in 'water' but with the tongue touching the back of the teeth rather than the alveolar ridge.
How do you use 'lata' in a sentence?
'Lata' is typically used as a noun to describe something or someone as a nuisance. For example, "El tráfico es una lata" (Traffic is a nuisance).
What is the English translation of 'lata'?
In the context of Mexican slang, 'lata' translates to 'nuisance,' 'bother,' or 'annoyance.'
Does 'lata' change for gender or number?
No, 'lata' is a feminine noun and does not typically change for gender or number when used in this slang context. It remains 'lata' regardless of what it refers to.
Is 'lata' common in everyday Spanish?
In Mexico, 'lata' is quite common in informal, everyday speech to express annoyance or frustration with something or someone perceived as a nuisance.
Does 'lata' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, in Mexican Spanish, 'lata' is a slang term. Its primary slang meaning is 'nuisance.' It can also refer to a can (e.g., a soda can), but this is a standard, not slang, meaning.
Is 'lata' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The slang usage of 'lata' as 'nuisance' is primarily associated with Mexico. In Spain, 'lata' more commonly refers to a can, and the word for nuisance would be different, such as 'molestia' or 'fastidio.'

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