afortunado
Lemma Details
Translation: fortunate; lucky; successful; blessed
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from 'fortuna' (fortune, luck) with the prefix 'a-' and the past participle suffix '-ado'. The root comes from Latin 'fortuna' meaning luck, chance, or fate, which is also the source of the English word 'fortune'. The concept relates to the Roman goddess Fortuna who personified luck and destiny.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'a-FORTUNE-ado' - someone who has a fortune or good luck.
- Remember the English word 'fortunate' which has the same Latin root and similar meaning.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, the concept of 'fortuna' (luck) is often discussed, and being 'afortunado' is considered a blessing. It's commonly used to describe someone who has good luck in life, whether in relationships, career, or general circumstances.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'afortunado' means 'fortunate' or 'lucky', 'aforado' refers to someone who has special legal privileges or immunity.
Confused word:
Como diputado, es un aforado y tiene inmunidad parlamentaria.
As a deputy, he has legal immunity and parliamentary privilege.
Notes: The confusion usually only happens in writing, as they sound quite different when pronounced.
Mnemonic: 'Afortunado' contains 'fortuna' (fortune/luck), while 'aforado' relates to 'fuero' (legal privilege).
Explanation: 'Afortunado' means 'lucky' while 'aficionado' means 'fan' or 'enthusiast'.
This word:
Fue afortunado al encontrar trabajo tan rápido.
He was fortunate to find a job so quickly.
Confused word:
Es un aficionado al fútbol desde niño.
He has been a football enthusiast since childhood.
Notes: Both words have entered English, but with different meanings - 'aficionado' as an enthusiast and 'fortunate' from the same root as 'afortunado'.
Mnemonic: 'Aficionado' contains 'afición' (hobby/interest), while 'afortunado' contains 'fortuna' (fortune/luck).