de forma segura
/de foɾma seɡuɾa/from spelling rules
The English word "safely" translates to Spanish as de forma segura.
de forma segura is used to describe doing something in a secure manner, without the possibility of injury or harm.
Meaning: in a secure manner, without the possibility of injury or harm resulting (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of de (of/in), forma (way/form) and segura (secure/safe).
Which one should you use?
While de forma segura focuses on the manner of an action being safe, the alternative con seguridad often implies certainty or confidence.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because forma is a feminine noun, the adjective segura must remain in the feminine form even if the subject of the sentence is masculine.
How do you pronounce it?
/de foɾma seɡuɾa/
Did you know?
- The word forma is a Latin borrowing that created a 'doublet' in Spanish. While forma refers to shape or manner, the related word horma refers specifically to a shoemaker's last.
- The word seguro comes from the Latin securus, which literally means 'without care' or 'without anxiety'. To do something de forma segura is etymologically to do it without worry.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, the word seguro can mean both 'safe' and 'insurance'.
Examples in context
- El personal debe manejar los productos químicos de manera segura.The staff must handle the chemicals safely.
- Asegúrate de manejar con seguridad durante el viajeMake sure to drive safely during the trip.
- Debes conducir de forma segura.You must drive safely.
- El equipo trabajó de forma segura hoy.The team worked safely today.
- Guarda tus documentos de forma segura.Store your documents safely.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are discussing how to store a new ladder.
- MaríaMateo, ¿dónde ponemos la escalera?Mateo, where do we put the ladder?
- MateoPonla contra la pared de forma segura.Put it against the wall safely.
- MaríaEstá bien, así no se caerá.All right, that way it won't fall.
- MateoExacto, es lo más importante.Exactly, it is the most important thing.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, forma, CC BY-SA 4.0.
