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

📅 Published: February 12, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

sopapo

noun • /[so-PA-po]/

slap

Example:

Le dieron un sopapo.

He got a slap.

🧠 What does sopapo mean?

Sopapo is a Mexican slang term for a slap, particularly one that is delivered forcefully or with a degree of annoyance or anger. It is more informal than the standard word 'bofetada'. While it refers to the physical act of slapping, it can also sometimes be used figuratively to describe a harsh reprimand or a significant setback. The term is distinctly Mexican and is not widely understood or used in other Spanish-speaking regions.

📚 Extra examples

  • Le dio un sopapo porque no hizo la tarea.
    He gave him a slap because he didn't do the homework.
  • Esa noticia fue un sopapo para sus esperanzas.
    That news was a blow to his hopes.
  • Ten cuidado, que te doy un sopapo.
    Be careful, or I'll give you a slap.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'bofetada' is the standard and universally understood term for 'slap' in Spanish, 'sopapo' is a more colloquial and regionally specific alternative that adds a stronger, more informal flavor to the language, particularly in Mexican contexts.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "sopapo"

Synonyms: bofetada, cachetada, golpe
Opposites: caricia, abrazo

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'slap' in Spanish?
The most common and general word for 'slap' in Spanish is 'bofetada'. 'Sopapo' is a more informal and slang term used primarily in Mexico.
How do you pronounce 'sopapo' in Spanish?
Sopapo is pronounced 'soh-PAH-poh'. The stress is on the second syllable, 'PAH'.
How do you use 'sopapo' in a sentence?
'Sopapo' is used as a noun, referring to the act of slapping. For example: 'Le propinó un sopapo' (He gave him a slap).
What is the English translation of 'sopapo'?
The English translation of 'sopapo' is 'slap'.
Does 'sopapo' change for gender or number?
As a noun, 'sopapo' is masculine and singular. If referring to multiple slaps, the plural form would be 'sopapos'. For example: 'Recibió varios sopapos' (He received several slaps).
Is 'sopapo' common in everyday Spanish?
'Sopapo' is common in everyday spoken Spanish within Mexico. However, it is considered slang and may not be used in formal contexts or understood by speakers from other countries.
Does 'sopapo' have slang or double meanings?
Primarily, 'sopapo' refers to a physical slap. In a figurative sense, it can sometimes imply a harsh setback or a strong reprimand, similar to a 'blow' or a 'rejection'.
Is 'sopapo' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
'Sopapo' is predominantly a Mexican slang term. In Spain and many other parts of Latin America, 'bofetada' or other regionalisms are more commonly used for 'slap'.

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