Understanding "Chorear" in Mexican Spanish

Chorear: Talk, Trick, and Tell Tall Tales

Spanish is rich with expressions that carry local and nuanced meanings. One of these verbs you'll frequently hear in Mexico, which might puzzle Spanish learners, is “chorear.” This versatile verb may not appear in traditional textbooks, but it is deeply embedded in everyday Mexican Spanish.

In this post, we will explore what "chorear" means in Mexico. We will also see how it connects to the noun “choro.” Additionally, we will examine how similar expressions vary across Latin America. Whether you're living in Mexico or just visiting, these examples will help you understand and maybe even use the choro yourself.

What Does "Chorear" Mean in Mexican Spanish?

The verb “chorear” in Mexican Spanish derives from the noun “choro.” This noun signifies a long-winded, exaggerated, or dishonest speech. To echar un choro means to give a lengthy explanation, often with the intent to distract or impress someone. As a result, "chorear" comes to mean:

1. To talk a lot without saying much

2. To lie or exaggerate

3. To deceive or sweet-talk someone

   
   

"Chorear" is primarily informal. It is often used when someone is being verbose or trying to manipulate through talk.

Common Uses of “Chorear” in Mexico

Here are some everyday examples that illustrate the different shades of meaning:

1. To Talk a Lot Without Much Substance

Ese político siempre nos chorea en sus discursos.

That politician is always rambling in his speeches.

Mi profesor nos choreó toda la clase y no explicó nada del examen.

My teacher rambled on the whole class and didn’t explain anything about the exam.

2. To Lie or Exaggerate

No me chorees, dime la verdad.

Don’t lie to me, tell me the truth.

Me choreó con que había estudiado, pero no sabía nada.

He told me he had studied, but he didn’t know a thing.

3. To Sweet-talk or Deceive Someone (Often Playfully)

Juan la estuvo choreando para que saliera con él.

Juan was sweet-talking her to get her to go out with him.

Me chorearon en el mercado, me vendieron algo falso.

They tricked me at the market and sold me something fake.

The Noun: "Choro"

As mentioned before, “choro” refers to a long speech, often filled with fluff or lies. Here are a couple of common ways to hear it:

Ya viene con su choro de siempre.

Here he comes with the same old speech.

No me eches choro.

Don’t give me that BS.

How Do Other Latin Americans Say It?

Country	Verb/expression	Example Meaning
Argentina	Chamuyar / Versear	To sweet-talk or ramble
Chile	engrupir, meter chamullo	To deceive or exaggerate
Colombia	echar carreta, embolatar	To talk nonsense or distract
Perú	florear	To flatter or lie with charm
Venezuela	echar labia	To persuade or manipulate

Unique Characteristics of "Chorear"

Like many Mexican expressions, "chorear" is full of life. It reflects the Mexican style of storytelling, humor, and communication. It adds a unique flavor to your Spanish, making conversations engaging and lively. Whether someone's choreado or it's your turn to chorear, the word perfectly captures the essence of everyday interaction.

So, the next time someone gives you a lengthy explanation that seems too smooth, you can respond with a knowing smile:

¿Me estás diciendo la verdad o me estás choreando?

Interested in Learning More Expressions Like This?

Join one of our online Tertulia sessions where we explore everyday Mexican Spanish in an informal and engaging format. Starting this week, the topic is Los verbos muy mexicanos.