cojones: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low-frequencyHighly informal, often considered vulgar or taboo.
Quick answer
What does “cojones” mean?
testicles.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
testicles.
courage, guts, boldness; used figuratively to denote assertiveness and nerve.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both varieties recognize it as a Spanish loanword; no significant regional difference in core meaning or register. Its understanding may be slightly higher in US regions with greater Hispanic cultural influence.
Connotations
Strongly masculine, often used in contexts praising (or criticizing) aggressive, unflinching, or risky behavior. Can be perceived as macho or sexist.
Frequency
Rare in both varieties, confined to specific informal contexts. More likely encountered in certain genres of film, literature, or journalism aiming for a specific tone.
Grammar
How to Use “cojones” in a Sentence
to have the cojones to + infinitive (to do something)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Highly inappropriate; risks creating a hostile or sexist environment.
Academic
Never used.
Everyday
Extremely rare in polite conversation; may be used among close friends in specific contexts.
Technical
No usage.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cojones”
- Mispronouncing the 'j' as an English 'j' sound (/dʒ/) instead of the Spanish 'h' sound (/h/).
- Using it in formal writing.
- Overestimating its acceptability in mixed company.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is considered vulgar or taboo due to its direct anatomical meaning. It belongs to a similar register as other slang terms for testicles.
Figuratively, yes, but it is often seen as problematic because it uses a specifically male anatomical metaphor to praise typically 'masculine' traits like courage in women, which can reinforce gender stereotypes.
The 'j' is pronounced like the 'h' in 'hello'. The British pronunciation tends towards /kəʊˈhəʊneɪz/ and the American towards /koʊˈhoʊneɪz/.
It is equally uncommon in both, though its recognition might be marginally higher in American English due to greater exposure to Spanish.
testicles.
Cojones is usually highly informal, often considered vulgar or taboo. in register.
Cojones: in British English it is pronounced /kəʊˈhəʊneɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /koʊˈhoʊneɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to have the cojones to do something”
- “to grow a pair (of cojones)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a Spanish bullfighter saying 'Olé!' – he needs 'cojones' (courage) to face the bull.
Conceptual Metaphor
MASCULINITY IS COURAGE / VITAL ORGANS ARE A SOURCE OF STRENGTH.
Practice
Quiz
In which of the following contexts would 'cojones' be LEAST appropriate?