The origin of one of the most used expressions in the Spanish language when we want to get someone away from our sight, either because it bothers us, or because he is lying or cheating, or for any other reason that bothers us, comes from no other place than the nautical world. So with this entry we want to refer to the meaning of the expression “vete al carajo” (got to hell). Although it may sound vulgar, it would be unfair to pass up the opportunity to tell its origins.

The definition of the word “carajo”, although according to mistrustful sources, not very accurate, referred to the small basket that was at the top of the main mast of the caravels and from where the lookouts -serviolas- spotted the horizon in search of signs of land.

If we go back centuries, we discover when the expression began to be used. Given its location at the top of the mast, this basket was an unstable place, where the ship’s swaying was most intense. In addition, it was impossible to shelter from the rain and wind. When a sailor committed a fault, he was sent “al carajo” (to hell) as punishment; sometimes he served only a few hours, sometimes days. 

Hearing “vete al carajo!” must have been one of the phrases no one wanted to hear on the high seas.

Next time you hear someone say “vete al carajo”, you know where they’re sending them 🙂 .