Pocho (pocha fem.) is a pejorative term used by native-born Mexicans to describe Chicanos who are perceived to have forgotten or rejected their Mexican heritage to some degree. Typically pochos lack fluency in Spanish. Among some pochos, the term has been embraced to express pride in having both a Mexican and American heritage[1] asserting their place in the diverse American culture. The word derives from the Spanish word pocho, used to describe fruit that has become rotten or discolored.
Pochos are identified by their use of poorly spoken Spanish. Code switching and the use of loanwords is common. Code switching often involves inserting English preposition or objective nouns, such as, "Voy a ir shopping ahora en el supermarket" (I am going shopping today at the supermarket). Modified loanwords are referred to as "pochismos." Examples include mopear for trapiar (to mop) or parquear for estacionar (to park).
The term does, however, imply different meanings. In San Diego/Tijuana, "pocho" carries no negative connotations. The word simply refers to one who has both Mexican and North American roots. By contrast, in Ciudad Juárez, the moniker is very much a term of abuse, referring in particular to (what residents of Cd. Juárez see as) "uncultured" Mexican-Americans living across the border in El Paso, though this is certainly not universal.
In general, the word "pocho" can sometimes have these different meanings:
- A person of Mexican heritage who acts American (a "wannabe" American).
- A Mexican-American who can speak little or no Spanish.
- An American who speaks Spanish and acts Mexican (a "wannabe" Mexican).
- A person who frequently crosses the U.S.-Mexican border and feels at home on both sides of the border.
Pocho is also the title of an important 1959 Chicano novel by José Antonio Villarreal.
References
- Dictionary definition
- "A Note on 'Pochismo'" by William E. Wilson, The Modern Language Journal, Vol. 30, No. 6 (Oct., 1946), pp. 345-346 (Available online at JSTOR - membership required)
See also
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