voto de silencio
/boto de silenθjo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "vow of silence" is translated into Spanish as voto de silencio.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of voto (vow), de (of) and silencio (silence).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, the expression voto de silencio absoluto may be used to refer to an absolute vow of silence.
Did you know?
- While voto de silencio refers to a spiritual commitment, the phrase ley del silencio 'law of silence' is commonly used in Spanish to describe an omertà or a pact to hide secrets among criminals.
- The Spanish word voto is an etymological relative of boda 'wedding'. Both words derive from the Latin concept of a solemn promise or a binding agreement.
- If you are playing a game in Spanish and want everyone to be quiet, you might jokingly tell them to hacer un voto de silencio, though this is quite dramatic for a casual setting.
Examples in context
- Los monjes han hecho un voto de silencio como muestra de devoción.The monks have taken a vow of silence as a sign of devotion.
- El monje hizo un voto de silencio.The monk took a vow of silence.
- Ella mantiene su voto de silencio en el retiro.She keeps her vow of silence during the retreat.
- No pueden romper su voto de silencio.They cannot break their vow of silence.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are visiting a monastery.
- JavierMira, ese monje tiene un voto de silencio.Look, that monk has a vow of silence.
- LucíaParece muy tranquilo y concentrado.He seems very calm and focused.
- JavierNo podemos hablarle entonces.We cannot speak to him then.
- LucíaTienes razón, respetemos su silencio.You are right, let's respect his silence.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, silencio, voto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
