There is no one definitive language, per se, in Puerto Rico. Spanish, English, and the native tongue known as Taino are all used. What one often hears in everyday conversation is a somewhat dysfunctional marriage of all three. Adding to the challenge is the widespread use of truncated words and abundant hybrid slang. All in all, a tricky lexicon to understand.
That said, making an effort to speak in Spanish is always appreciated. I often beat myself up over what I assume (and am most likely correct) is my awful re-fried pronunciation and general lack of nuance. However, when I try I am more often than not met with acceptance (throwing in a smile never hurts). Like all things in life, it’s the intention behind our actions or words that truly count, si?