7 New Mexico Slang Words To Sound Like A Local

If you’re spending some time in the state, you will want to know these New Mexico slang words to help you speak like a local. From great road trips to tasty burgers, as well as enjoyable cities like Albuquerque, this is a state you will want to get to know a whole lot better.

Here are 7 New Mexico Slang Words To Sound Like A Local

1. ‘ABQ’ or ‘Q’ = Albuquerque

Short for Albuquerque.

2. LA = Los Alamos

LA usually means Los Angeles. But in New Mexico, this means someone is discussing Los Alamos, where Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is located.

3. “Red, green, or Christmas?” = Chile pepper

If you’re asked this in a restaurant, the server means do you want red chile, green chile, or both (Christmas!) on your food.

4. “A la maquina!” = Shock

A popular term to use in place of an expletive when expressing astonishment.

5. Duke City = Albuquerque

Yep, it’s another name for Albuquerque!

6. ‘Topes = Albuquerque Isotopes

The Albuquerque Isotopes are a Minor League Baseball team of the Pacific Coast League.

7. Land of mañana = Doing it tomorrow

Things move a little slower in New Mexico, and it’s pretty common to put things off until tomorrow!

Spending time in the state? Check out The Most Instagrammable Spots In New Mexico.