Pana (amigo)
Friend or buddy, in an informal and affectionate register. It appears in the phrase mi pana for someone you trust and also as a direct greeting. Do not confuse it with pana or panapén, the breadfruit, which turns up fried or boiled on the table.
Example
Being called mi pana ten minutes after meeting someone is normal and it is a good sign.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use it with strangers?
In informal settings yes, though it sounds better returned than offered first. Hearing it before using it is the safe route.
What is panapén then?
Breadfruit, eaten fried, boiled or as tostones, with no connection to the greeting.
