Jackie's Top 5: Expressions you'll hear only in New Mexico

LAS CRUCES - Whether you're from New Mexico or have just traveled through the state, you may have heard some colorful expressions you've never heard anywhere else. New Mexico, unique in its own way, is definitely its own entity when it comes to culture and language.

The Chicano lingo — sometimes a mixture of English and Spanish — is one of the most recognizable dialects in the nation. 

Here are the top 5 expressions you'll only hear in New Mexico, as voted for by New Mexicans:

1.) "Is it stove hot or chile hot?"

For most New Mexicans, chile is a way of life. When someone asks if something is hot, it can be a little confusing. So, to be clear, New Mexicans will ask if said thing is stove hot, as in hot to the touch — or chile hot — when it comes to spicy taste. 

For example: "Is that tamale stove hot or chile hot?" 

2.) "I know, huh?"

This expression is usually used when someone agrees with someone and is used at the end every sentence. Adding an "Eeeee," in the beginning is optional.

For example: 

Person A: "Did you see that car? It was going really fast."

Person B: "I know, huh?" 

3.) "Welcome to the Land of Entrapment"

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment when it comes to outsiders, but for those residing here, they jokingly refer to it as the "Land of Entrapment" — because it seems they can never leave, or they always return. Who wouldn't want to stay here though? The landscapes and sunsets are beautiful. No wonder it's called the Land of Enchantment.

4.) "It's all sick" 

Mainly used in northern New Mexico, this expression is used when someone thinks something is really cool, deserves attention, or is impressive. It is often used with a "huh?" at the end.

For example: "Check out that house. It's all sick, huh?"

5.) "I'll do it right now"

For most people, when someone says, "I'll do it right now," one can expect they'll do it at that moment. Not for New Mexicans, though. This expression often means they'll actually do it later. 

For example: 

Person A: Now that we had dinner can you do the dishes?

Person B: OK, I'll do it right now when I come back from the store.

Jacqueline Devine is the trending and entertainment reporter at the Sun-News and can be reached at 575-541-5476, JDevine@lcsun-news.com or @JackieIsDevine on Twitter.