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

📅 Published: December 28, 2025

🌶️ Mexican Slang

ñero

noun • /[NYE-ro]/

buddy

Example:

Ese ñero siempre me cuida.

That buddy always has my back.

🧠 What does ñero mean?

Ñero is a colloquial term widely used in Mexico to refer to a close friend, companion, or buddy. It carries a sense of camaraderie and informality, often used among young people or in very casual social settings. While it primarily signifies a friend, the specific nuance can sometimes depend on the context and the speaker's intent. It is a distinctly Mexican expression and is not commonly used in other Spanish-speaking countries.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¿Qué onda, ñero? ¿Vamos por unas chelas?
    What's up, buddy? Shall we go for some beers?
  • Ese güey es mi ñero de toda la vida.
    That guy is my lifelong buddy.
  • Le pedí ayuda a mi ñero para la mudanza.
    I asked my buddy for help with the move.
  • Los ñeros se reunieron en el parque.
    The buddies got together in the park.

💡 Did You Know?

The term 'ñero' is a distinctly Mexican slang word, emphasizing its regional usage. It is part of the vibrant and evolving lexicon of informal Spanish in Mexico.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "ñero"

Synonyms: amigo, cuate, compadre, colega, pana
Opposites: enemigo, rival, extraño

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'buddy' in Spanish?
In Mexican slang, 'ñero' is a common way to say 'buddy'. In more general Spanish, terms like 'amigo' (friend), 'compañero' (companion), or 'cuate' (another slang term for friend, especially in Mexico) can also be used.
How do you pronounce 'ñero' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'ñero' is approximately 'NYEH-roh'. The 'ñ' sound is similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon'.
How do you use 'ñero' in a sentence?
'Ñero' is used as a noun, typically placed after the verb or as a direct address. It is used informally to refer to a male friend or a group of friends.
What is the English translation of 'ñero'?
The most common English translation of 'ñero' is 'buddy'.
Does 'ñero' change for gender or number?
The term 'ñero' is typically used for males. While there isn't a direct feminine equivalent commonly recognized, context would usually clarify if it's being used to refer to a mixed group. Plural forms would be 'ñeros'.
Is 'ñero' common in everyday Spanish?
'Ñero' is common in informal, everyday Spanish, specifically within Mexico. It is not standard Spanish and is not typically used in formal settings or in most other Spanish-speaking countries.
Does 'ñero' have slang or double meanings?
Primarily, 'ñero' means 'buddy'. However, in some contexts, particularly among certain social groups, it can sometimes carry connotations of being from a working-class background or having a slightly rougher edge, though this is not its main meaning.
Is 'ñero' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
Yes, 'ñero' is almost exclusively used in Mexico and is not a common term in Spain. Other Latin American countries may have their own slang terms for 'buddy' but generally do not use 'ñero'.

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