Money
A very common slang term in many South American countries like Colombia, Argentina, and Chile. It literally means 'silver'.
The most common slang for money in Mexico. It literally means 'wool', referencing a time when wool was a valuable commodity.
Means 'bill' or 'banknote', but is often used to talk about having cash or a lot of money. 'Hay que tener mucho billete para ese carro.' (You need a lot of money for that car.)
I don't have money for the movies.
Do you need money for the taxi?
My friend earns a lot of money at his job.
How much money does it cost?
'Dinero' is the universal, standard word understood everywhere. When in doubt, use 'dinero'.
'Lana' is the most common slang term for money in casual conversation.
'Plata' is used extensively, often more than 'dinero' in everyday speech. It's the go-to casual term in these and several other South American countries.
While 'dinero' is standard, the most famous slang term is 'pasta'. Using 'plata' or 'lana' would sound distinctly Latin American.
'Plata' is also very common in Peru, similar to its neighbors.
Using 'moneda' for 'money'. — 'Moneda' specifically means 'coin'. Saying 'No tengo moneda' means 'I don't have any coins', not 'I don't have any money'. The correct general term is 'dinero'.
Making 'dinero' plural. — Like 'money' in English, 'dinero' is an uncountable noun. You say 'mucho dinero' (a lot of money), not 'muchos dineros'.
Using slang in the wrong country. — Using 'lana' (Mexico) in Argentina or 'pasta' (Spain) in Mexico will sound strange. If you're unsure of the local slang, stick with 'dinero' to be safe and understood.
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