chicle
/CHEE-kleh/
chewing gum
Chicle refers to the chewing gum itself.
📝 In Action
No puedes masticar chicle en clase.
A1You can't chew gum in class.
Compré un paquete de chicles de menta.
A2I bought a pack of mint gum.
Se me pegó un chicle en el zapato.
A2A piece of gum got stuck to my shoe.
💡 Grammar Points
Counting pieces of gum
Unlike in English where we often say 'a piece of gum,' in Spanish you can simply say 'un chicle' to mean one individual unit or piece.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Gum vs. Gums
Mistake: "Using 'chicle' to talk about the pink tissue in your mouth around your teeth."
Correction: Use 'encía' for the tissue in your mouth. 'Chicle' is only for the candy you chew.
⭐ Usage Tips
Social Etiquette
In many Spanish-speaking countries, if you take out a piece of gum, it is polite to offer one to the people you are with.
Chicle can describe a person who sticks to you like glue.
chicle(noun)
clingy person
?someone who stays too close or won't leave you alone
glue
?metaphorical, meaning someone who follows you everywhere
📝 In Action
Mi hermano pequeño es un chicle, me sigue a todas partes.
B2My little brother is so clingy, he follows me everywhere.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Ser'
When describing someone as clingy with this word, always use the verb 'ser' (to be) because it's considered a personality trait or a consistent behavior.
⭐ Usage Tips
Tone check
Calling someone 'un chicle' can be affectionate or annoying depending on your tone. Use it carefully with friends!
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: chicle
Question 1 of 1
If your friend follows you everywhere and never leaves your side, you might call them:
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'chicle' masculine or feminine?
It is masculine: 'el chicle'. Even when used to describe a person, you usually say 'es un chicle'.
How do I say 'a piece of gum'?
Simply say 'un chicle'. You don't need to add a word for 'piece'.