Some Spanish expressions highlight how language is intertwined with culture. They often reflect specific customs, values, and ways of life that aren't easily replicated in other languages. Learning these expressions can give you a deeper understanding of the Spanish-speaking world. You will surely come across some during your time at Academia Contacto Madrid.
Here are some examples of Spanish expressions, accompanied by explanations
"Sobremesa". The literal translation is "Over the table" and the meaning is the time spent talking around the table after a meal, often lingering for a long time. It's a cultural practice that emphasizes socializing and enjoying company rather than rushing off.
It's not just about the time after eating; it's about the specific cultural importance placed on that time.
"Estrenar" means "To premiere", to use or wear something for the very first time. It carries a sense of excitement and newness, like when a woman buys a new dress and finds the perfect occasion to use it, or when a kid uses a toy for its first time after having opened it under the Christmas Tree. It is hard to translate because if you can say "to use for the first time," it lacks the specific celebratory connotation of "estrenar."
The meaning of "Madrugar" is “To wake up at dawn" (dawn used as a verb). This meaning is quite direct: to wake up very early in the morning. It captures a sense of intentional, often habitual, early rising.
Meanwhile, "Puente" ("Bridge") means a long weekend created by a holiday falling on a Tuesday or Thursday, "bridging" it to the weekend.
More expressions...
"Vergüenza ajena": "Someone else's shame" means the feeling of embarrassment you get when someone else does something embarrassing, even if you're not involved.
It's a very specific emotion that doesn't have a single-word equivalent in many languages. You often have to explain it with a phrase like "vicarious embarrassment."
"Merendar" is another expression with no direct translation. Its meaning is to have a snack in the afternoon, often something sweet. It's a cultural practice, especially common for children. And while you can say "to have an afternoon snack," "merendar" implies a specific cultural moment and type of snack.
This one is problematic for new couples: "Te quiero" vs. "Te amo". Both translate to "I love you", but "Te quiero" is used for family, friends, and romantic partners, expressing affection, whereas "Te amo" is a much stronger, deeper declaration of love, typically reserved for romantic partners. Why it's hard to translate: English only has "I love you," losing the nuance between the two.
If you have doubts about any of these expressions, do not hesitate to ask your Spanish teacher!
