lactancia materna
/laɡtanθja mateɾna/from spelling rules
The English phrase "breast feeding" is translated into Spanish as lactancia materna.
Lactancia materna refers to the practice or the biological process of breastfeeding.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase lactancia materna is composed of lactancia (lactation) and materna (maternal).
Which one should you use?
Use lactancia materna when discussing the practice or biological process, whereas amamantar is used when referring to the specific act of a mother feeding her baby.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the informal phrase dar de mamar is commonly used to mean "to breastfeed".
How do you pronounce it?
/laɡtanθja mateɾna/
Did you know?
- The phrase dar de mamar can sound surprisingly blunt or overly informal in Spain compared to its common use in Mexico.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, the phrase dar de mamar is used not just for humans but also for animals that suckle.
- The verb lactar shares its ancient roots with the English word 'lactate', both tracing back to the Latin 'lactare' meaning 'to suckle'.
Examples in context
- Estoy a favor de la lactancia materna porque es muy beneficiosa para el bebé.I am in favor of breastfeeding because it is very beneficial for the baby.
- ¿Sabías que dar pecho refuerza el vínculo entre la madre y el bebé?Did you know that breastfeeding strengthens the bond between the mother and the baby?
- En mi país, amamantar al bebé en público es completamente normal y aceptado.In my country, breastfeeding in public is completely normal and accepted.
- La lactancia materna es muy importante.Breast feeding is very important.
- Ella recomienda la lactancia materna.She recommends breast feeding.
- La lactancia materna tiene muchos beneficios.Breast feeding has many benefits.
Example conversation
A couple discussing their baby's nutrition.
- MaríaQuiero intentar la lactancia materna.I want to try breastfeeding.
- JavierMe parece una idea excelente, María.I think that is an excellent idea, María.
- MaríaLa lactancia materna es lo mejor para el bebé.Breastfeeding is the best for the baby.
- JavierTienes razón, yo te apoyaré en todo.You are right, I will support you in everything.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lactancia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
