modismos
/modismos/from spelling rules
The English phrase "idioms" is translated into Spanish as modismos.
modismos refers to phrases whose meanings cannot be understood from the individual words they contain.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, Acertar de lleno is an alternative idiom to mean to hit the nail on the head. In Mexico, Costar un riñón can be used to express to cost an arm and a leg.
How do you pronounce it?
/modismos/
Did you know?
- In Spanish-speaking cultures, using modismos effectively is a way to demonstrate chispa, a quality of wit and mental agility.
- Spanish has a specific category of idioms called refranes, which are proverbs that offer moral advice. While modismos are just figurative expressions, refranes are used as social shortcuts to teach a lesson.
- Beyond linguistics, the word modismo can be used to describe a current fashion or a prevailing style of behavior.
Examples in context
- En el inglés abundan los modismos.English abounds in idioms.Tatoeba #9767512 by Eremon, translation #26298 by Objectivesea
- Estar sin blancaTo be broke
- Ser un(a) teleadicto(a)To be a couch potato
- Los modismos pueden ser difíciles de aprender.Idioms can be difficult to learn.
Example conversation
Javier and María are studying together in a library.
- Javier¿Qué estudias hoy, María?What are you studying today, María?
- MaríaEstoy repasando algunos modismos del español.I am reviewing some Spanish idioms.
- JavierEsos modismos son muy complicados.Those idioms are very complicated.
- MaríaSí, pero son muy útiles.Yes, but they are very useful.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
