By Francisco J. Báez
Meaning “How cool!” or its superlative “padrísimo”, Qué Padre! is a colloquial phrase used to convey admiration, approval, or enthusiasm for something or someone. It is deeply rooted in Mexican culture and its use is ubiquitous in everyday speech.
Some of the theories about its origin include:
A relation to the father figure: The word “padre” - father -, is traditionally associated with a figure of authority, affection, respect and protection. So, it is possible that the expression “¡Qué padre!” has arisen as a way of expressing that something is as worthy as an inspiring father.
Religious influence: In the religious sphere, the word “padre” (also priest), is used to refer to God. The phrase “¡Qué padre!” might’ve taken a positive connotation from this context, since many catholic believers seek a special blessing from the priest attending; anniversaries, childbirths; “Quinceañeras”, weddings, baptisms, openings, cars and even inaugurations.
Language Evolution: Idiomatic expressions often arise spontaneously and evolve over time. It is possible that “¡Qué padre!” emerged as a popular idiom without a specific origin, and that its use spread out for its ability to convey positive emotions.
“¡Qué padre!” is used in a wide variety of situations:
Approval: “¡Qué padre está tu nuevo coche!” - How cool is your new car.
Enthusiasm: “¡Qué padre va a estar la fiesta!” - The party is gonna be so cool.
Admiration: “¡Te ves padrísima en ese vestido!” - You look superb in that dress.
Positive Surprise: “¡Qué padre que veniste!” - How nice of you to come!.
Agreement: “¡Qué padre! Estoy de acuerdo contigo” - How cool!, I agree with you.
It is noteworthy to understand that the “¡Qué padre!” slang varies according to context. In other regions it may be commonplace to use: “¡Qué bien!”, “¡qué chido!, “muy bonito”, “estupendo”, “admirable”, “divertido”, “a todo dar”, and even “¡Qué cool!”
And if you thought this utterance has its fare share of nuances, wait until you learn “what mamma has to say” in our May installment, honoring el día de las Madres.
Francisco J. Báez, Hi Mexico! "The Immersion Guide" for both accelerated Spanishand English programs.
Voluntary-Fee courses Spanish: Tuesdays 4:00-6:00 p.m.English: Thursdays 6:00-8:00 p.m. Saturdays 4:00-6:00 p.m.
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