Questions about the terms "red neck", "blue collar" and "white collar"...

Question

Yesterday, I was watching a short documentary which was filmed in Argentina. The person being interviewed used the following terms:

cuello rojo, cuello azul y cuello blanco

Now I know these terms are very commonly used in the U.S. as "red neck" (someone from the southern U.S. with certain stereotypical characteristics); "blue collar" (someone whose job is more physical or manual in nature, earning hourly wages) and "white collar" ( someone who works in the professional or business world, usually wearing a suit).

I was just wondering, are these terms used throughout the world, especially in Spanish speaking countries? It could be that the man being interviewed was familiar with the American terms and used them when conversing in Spanish with the interviewer. However, because the interviewer was never seen or heard, I'm not sure if he/she was American or not.

I'm just curious and would love any input you might have. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

To my knowledge, they are not used anywhere but the U.S.. We have different terms that convey a similar meaning, usually ones that relate to our regional experince. Some examples are, obrero, which only means worker, but when we es un obrero it gives the same impression as blue collar. Profesionista is relative to white collar. Again, this just means proffesional, but if the context of the sentence is right, it too conveys the meaning you cite. Redneck is a little tougher because it is much more subjective. Many people say Ranchero because, again, I understand this is the Pick up driving farmer who thinks all city pople are out to get them and are soft and stupid. There are other more insulting and vulgur terms that I will not mention, but you get the idea.

Many translations today are too literal and improper tems are used when something better is available. Unfortunately, they forgot why they learned a language. I didn't learn a language to show off, or to prove how smart I am, I learned it to communicate!!. When you translate, it should be to communicate the meaning in a way the new listener can understand. They should not have to guess or ask someone what that translation means.

Well, I don't mean to preach. Sorry.

Hi Rey and welcome to the forum! Thanks for this info. Don't worry, it didn't sound like preaching. :) - Nicole-B, Jun 1, 2011

thanks, glad if I could help. - Rey55, Jun 1, 2011

Answer 2

I've seen blue collar used in Spanish, for example in Panama's "prensa":

Prensa link

With today's global economy, I still wonder if this is a term adapted from the American or if this was always used. As you scan down the article, it is also interesting to note the word "multi-tasking", which is a rather common term used these days. - Nicole-B, Jun 1, 2011

Right, U S A influence is everywhere I've seen, in Panama. - pesta, Jun 1, 2011

Answer 3

The terms aren't in the drae, but a native speaker here says they are used for white and blue collar workers.

Answer 4

Hi Nicole!

The guys at church use "red neck" without translating it.

I can see that happening in the U.S. That is why I was curious if the person being interviewed was making a play on words, but using Spanish. - Nicole-B, Jun 1, 2011

Answer 5

Here is the actual video which I was able to download from Yabla. I thought it might be better to see it in context. As you will notice, the speaker laughs a bit after saying the words "cuello rojo, azul, y blanco", which is why I wondered about this in the first place.

Interview

You will hear the terms at 1:10 minutes into the interview. Let me know if it can't be opened. - Nicole-B, Jun 1, 2011