coña
/KOH-nyah/
joke
A 'coña' is a joke or something funny shared between friends.
coña(noun)
joke
?Something said to be funny or not meant seriously
kidding
?The act of making fun or jesting
,no way
?Used in the fixed phrase 'ni de coña' to show strong refusal
📝 In Action
¿Lo dices en serio o estás de coña?
B1Are you serious or are you kidding?
No voy a ir a esa fiesta ni de coña.
B2I am not going to that party, no way.
Fue una coña que nos gastó Juan.
C1It was a joke that Juan played on us.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'De' with Coña
When you want to say you are joking, you almost always use the little word 'de' before coña, as in 'estar de coña'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Too much 'Coña' in formal settings
Mistake: "Using 'coña' in a job interview."
Correction: Use 'broma' instead. 'Coña' is very informal and can sound slightly rude or too relaxed in serious situations.
⭐ Usage Tips
The 'No Way' Expression
If you want to say a very strong 'no,' use 'ni de coña.' It's much more forceful than just saying 'no.'
The phrase 'de coña' is used to describe something that is great or wonderful.
coña(noun)
great
?Used in the phrase 'de coña' to mean something is wonderful
perfectly
?Doing something very well
📝 In Action
El viaje nos salió de coña.
C1The trip turned out great for us.
Este hotel está de coña.
B2This hotel is awesome.
💡 Grammar Points
Positive vs. Joking
Context is key! 'Estar de coña' means kidding, but if a thing 'está de coña,' it means that thing is fantastic.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: coña
Question 1 of 2
If your friend says something crazy and you want to ask 'Are you kidding?', what do you say?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'coña' a bad word?
It's not exactly a 'curse word,' but it is very informal slang. You shouldn't use it with your boss or a stranger, but it's perfectly fine with friends in Spain.
Can I use this word in Mexico?
People will understand you because of Spanish movies and TV, but Mexicans don't use it. They would likely use 'broma' or 'guasa' instead.