“habichuelas” and “frijoles” are both terms for beans, however there may be some slight difference between how these terms are used to refer to breans, especially when it comes to their regional usuage as well as the particular variety of beans that is being referred to. 

“Habichuelas” is a word commonly used in the Caribbean and some parts of Spain to describe beans. Depending on the context, it may refer to different types of beans, such as green beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. In the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, for example, “habichuelas” often means kidney beans or red beans.

These beans are a staple in many traditional dishes, like “habichuelas guisadas,” a savory stewed bean dish. The word is broad and can cover a variety of bean types in these regions. 

On the other hand, “frijoles” is a term primarily used in Mexico and Central America. When people say “frijoles,” they are typically talking about black beans or pinto beans, both of which are heavily featured in Mexican cuisine. For instance, “frijoles refritos” refers to refried beans, a popular dish where beans are cooked, mashed, and fried. While the term “frijoles” can also refer to other beans, it is most commonly associated with those varieties.