That’s what Google said

The phrase "No Sabo" is a playful and culturally significant expression rooted in the Spanish language that has sparked conversations about language identity and heritage among Spanish speakers, especially in the United States. "No Sabo" is a humorous misconjugation of the Spanish verb "saber" (to know), mixing up "sé" (I know) with a non-standard "sabo," which doesn’t exist in Spanish grammar. This incorrect form highlights the unique linguistic experiences of heritage speakers—individuals who grow up bilingual or with some exposure to Spanish but may not have full mastery of all its grammatical rules due to various social and educational factors. This linguistic phenomenon is part of a broader conversation about cultural identity among heritage speakers, who often straddle the line between their native language and their dominant culture’s language, usually English. The "No Sabo" movement draws attention to the pride and challenges faced by heritage speakers who may not be fully fluent or standardized in Spanish but maintain a strong cultural connection nonetheless. The phrase also reflects on the irregular verb "saber," which changes spelling in the first person singular (yo sé), and is often a source of confusion for learners and heritage speakers. This misusage has been embraced affectionately by some as an emblem of cultural authenticity and the imperfect but meaningful way heritage speakers interact with their linguistic heritage. Understanding this term helps shed light on the broader issues of language preservation, identity, and intergenerational transmission of culture. Platforms like Duolingo have addressed this by acknowledging the unique experiences of "No Sabo" kids, who negotiate their bilingualism in ways that do not necessarily conform to traditional language learning standards but are important markers of lived experience. By recognizing and validating such expressions, communities can foster inclusivity and support for heritage language speakers. This encourages not only language maintenance but also an appreciation for linguistic diversity shaped by real life usage and identity.