Flipar en colores
/flee-PAR en koh-LOH-ress/
To be completely amazed, mind-blown, or extremely surprised by something.
💡 Understanding the Idiom
🎨 Literal vs. Figurative
Literally, this means 'to flip out in colors'.
In reality, it means to be totally amazed or mind-blown by something.
Key Words in This Idiom:
📝 In Action
Cuando vi el final de la película, flipé en colores. ¡No me lo esperaba para nada!
B2When I saw the end of the movie, I was completely blown away. I didn't expect it at all!
Vas a flipar en colores cuando veas el regalo que te he comprado.
B2You're going to freak out (in a good way) when you see the gift I bought you.
📜 Origin Story
The verb 'flipar' is a great example of English influence on Spanish. It comes from the English phrase 'to flip out', which became popular in Spain through movies and music in the 1970s and 80s. The 'en colores' (in colors) part was added to make the feeling even stronger. Think of old cartoons where a character gets shocked and sees stars and vibrant colors. It's the same idea – a surprise so big it's almost a psychedelic, colorful experience!
⭐ Usage Tips
Expressing Maximum Surprise
This isn't for a minor surprise. Use it when something genuinely blows your mind: a shocking plot twist, an incredible view, or an unbelievable piece of news. It's all about emphasis.
Keep it Casual
This is 100% slang. It's perfect for using with friends and in very informal situations. You wouldn't tell your boss you 'flipaste en colores' during their presentation, unless you have a very relaxed relationship!
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using It for Minor Things
Mistake: "Using this phrase for something that is just a little surprising, like 'Flipo en colores, se me olvidaron las llaves.' (I'm amazed, I forgot my keys)."
Correction: This phrase is for big, over-the-top reactions. For small, everyday surprises, it's better to stick to simpler expressions like '¡Qué sorpresa!' (What a surprise!) or 'Vaya...' (Wow...).
🌎 Where It's Used
Spain
Extremely common, especially among people under 50. It's a hallmark of modern, informal Spanish from Spain.
Latin America
Almost never used. It will likely not be understood or will immediately identify the speaker as being from Spain. Most countries have their own local slang for being amazed.
🔗 Related Idioms
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: Flipar en colores
Question 1 of 1
Your friend from Madrid tells you about an incredible concert they saw last night and says, '¡Flipé en colores!'. What do they mean?
🏷️ Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just say 'flipar' by itself?
Yes, absolutely! Just saying '¡Flipas!' (You're kidding!) or 'Estoy flipando' (I'm freaking out/amazed) is very common and carries the same meaning of surprise. Adding 'en colores' just adds extra intensity, like saying 'I was *totally* blown away.'