Cortés
/koɾtes/from spelling rules
The English name Cortez refers to the Spanish conquistador Cortés in Spanish.
Cortés is the name of the Spanish conquistador who led the expedition that caused the fall of the Aztec Empire.
How do you pronounce it?
/koɾtes/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often spell the name with a 'z' at the end, but in Spanish, the standard spelling for the conquistador is with an 's'.
Did you know?
- The name Cortés is actually an adjective turned into a surname, meaning 'polite' or 'courteous'.
- In Mexico, the name Cortés is often spoken with a tone of deep historical controversy, as he represents the catalyst for the end of the indigenous Aztec civilization.
- The spelling Cortez with a 'z' is frequently found in surnames in the Americas, even though the conquistador's name ends in 's'.
Examples in context
- ¿Es verdad que en España hay una estatua de Hernán Cortés pisando la cabeza despojada de un indio?Is it true that in Spain there's a statue of Hernán Cortez stepping on the severed head of an Indian?This sentence is useful for discussing whether a specific statue of Cortés exists in Spain.Tatoeba #1078728 by hayastan, translation #1774162 by seupessoa
- El libro habla sobre Hernán Cortés.The book is about Hernán Cortés.
- Cortés llegó a México en una expedición.Cortés arrived in Mexico on an expedition.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing a history assignment in a library.
- Alejandro¿Has leído sobre Cortés?Have you read about Cortés?
- SofíaSí, estoy estudiando su historia ahora.Yes, I am studying his history now.
- AlejandroEs un tema muy complejo para la clase.It is a very complex topic for the class.
- SofíaTienes razón, Alejandro.You are right, Alejandro.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Cortés, cortés, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
