In our conversation, I also brought up how I noticed that a lot of people here refer to each other using names that would be considered rude or mean. For example, I’ve heard the nickname gordo or gordito being used a lot. This translates to “fatty” or “little fatty” in English. I’ve heard this being used as a term between family members and in conversation when referring to someone else. I was always taught that it was rude to mention someone’s weight, so it was a bit of a shock when I first encountered this language.
My friend explained to me that this very blunt and direct language is something that is normal to her everyday life. She and many people she knows, do not take offense to it. This type of direct language is something she and many others are used to, just like I’m used to a language that is less straightforward. She gave me reassurance that people here don’t usually say things with the intention to be mean. Ticos are generally very friendly, but this is just something that is perceived in a different way by foreigners. There is no direct explanation for why things are that way, it is just something that is understood by people who grew up in that culture. She also said that if I ever feel uncomfortable with something, I should let that person know. It’s all about understanding each other and being respectful of boundaries.
After unpacking my thoughts with her, I felt as though I gained a new perspective on the interactions in Costa Rica.
