What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cholo
Example
He proudly identifies as a cholo, embracing his mixed heritage. [cholo: noun]
Example
The cholo style of dress and music became popular among young people in the neighborhood. [cholo: adjective]
mestizo
Example
She is proud of her mestizo heritage, which reflects the rich diversity of her family's background. [mestizo: adjective]
Example
Mestizos make up a significant portion of the population in many Latin American countries. [mestizos: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mestizo is more commonly used than cholo in everyday language, especially in academic and formal contexts. Mestizo is a widely recognized term that encompasses individuals with mixed heritage, while cholo is more specific and may carry negative connotations in some contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cholo and mestizo?
While mestizo is generally considered a neutral and formal term, cholo can be seen as more informal and may carry negative or controversial associations due to its historical usage.
