raza negra
/raθa neɡɾa/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'black race' is translated into Spanish as raza negra.
The phrase raza negra is used to describe a group of people who share a similar physical appearance and ancestral origin from Africa. In a social context, it is more common to use the term personas negras when referring specifically to black individuals.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun raza (race) and the adjective negra (black).
Which one should you use?
While raza negra refers to the concept of the black race, personas negras is typically used to refer to black people in social settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in the Caribbean and parts of Central America, the prefix afro- is used to refer to people of African descent.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective negra must agree in gender with the feminine noun raza.
How do you pronounce it?
/raθa neɡɾa/
Did you know?
- In certain Caribbean contexts, describing someone as negro or negra can be an affectionate term of endearment between partners or family members, regardless of the person's actual race.
- The word raza shares a surprising linguistic root with the word for a 'ray' of light, such as in the Romanian word rază.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, raza is used colloquially to refer to one's 'people' or 'kin' regardless of biological race.
Examples in context
- La raza negra ha dejado huellas significativas en la historia y cultura de América Latina.The black race has left significant marks in the history and culture of Latin America.
- La historia de la raza negra es muy rica.The history of the black race is very rich.
- Él estudia la cultura de la raza negra.He studies the culture of the black race.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are discussing a sociology book.
- LucíaEste libro analiza la raza negra en América.This book analyzes the black race in America.
- MateoParece un tema muy interesante, Lucía.It seems like a very interesting topic, Lucía.
- LucíaSí, explica mucho sobre la raza negra.Yes, it explains a lot about the black race.
- MateoQuiero leerlo después, gracias Mateo.I want to read it later, thanks Mateo.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries raza, CC BY-SA 4.0.
