al oído

Lemma Details

Translation: in the ear; to the ear; by ear; whispered

Part of Speech: phrase

Etymology: This Spanish phrase combines the preposition 'a' (to) with the definite article 'el' (the), which contract to form 'al', plus 'oído' (ear). 'Oído' derives from Latin 'auditus' (hearing, the act of listening), which is related to the English words 'audio', 'auditory', and 'audience'. The phrase is used both literally to refer to speaking directly into someone's ear and figuratively to describe learning music without written notation.

Commonality: 70%

Guessability: 60%

Register: neutral

Mnemonics

  • Think of 'audio' (English) and 'oído' to remember it relates to hearing and ears.
  • Imagine someone cupping their hand around their mouth and leaning toward your ear to tell you a secret.

Related Words, Phrases & Idioms

hablar al oído

Unknown

No translation

tocar de oído

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No translation

susurrar

Unknown

No translation

Synonyms

en secreto

Unknown

No translation

en voz baja

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No translation

Antonyms

en voz alta

Unknown

No translation

públicamente

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No translation

Cultural Context

In Spanish culture, whispering 'al oído' is common in social situations when sharing private information. The phrase 'tocar de oído' (to play by ear) is frequently used in musical contexts to describe someone who can play music without reading sheet music, relying instead on their listening skills.

Easily Confused With

a oídas

Unknown

No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: While 'al oído' refers to speaking directly into someone's ear or learning music by ear, 'a oídas' means 'by hearsay' or 'according to what one has heard'.

Notes: 'Al oído' is much more common in everyday speech than 'a oídas', which has a more formal register.

Mnemonic: 'Al oído' is direct (into the ear), while 'a oídas' is indirect (through others' ears).