cargo
Lemma Details
Translation: load; cargo; burden; charge; position; job; responsibility; office
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'carrus' meaning 'cart' or 'wagon', which evolved into the verb 'carricare' meaning 'to load'. This same Latin root gave English words like 'car', 'cargo', 'charge', and 'carrier'. The semantic evolution shows how the concept of physical burden (a load) extended to metaphorical burdens (responsibilities, positions).
Commonality: 85%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El barco transporta un cargo pesado.
The ship carries a heavy load.
Tiene el cargo de director general.
He holds the position of general director.
Es un cargo de mucha responsabilidad.
It's a position of great responsibility.
Los cargos contra el acusado son graves.
The charges against the accused are serious.
Estoy a cargo del proyecto.
I'm in charge of the project.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'cargo' as the 'car goes' with a load or burden.
- Remember that a 'cargo' (job) is something you 'carry' as a responsibility.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'cargo' often refers to official positions in government or organizations, carrying connotations of both authority and responsibility. The concept of 'cargo' as a position is particularly important in professional and bureaucratic contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'cargo' can refer to a load or burden, 'carga' specifically means 'load' or 'burden' without the additional meanings of position or responsibility that 'cargo' has.
Notes: 'Cargo' is more versatile and can refer to positions, responsibilities, and charges, while 'carga' is more limited to physical or metaphorical burdens.
Mnemonic: 'Cargo' ends with 'o' like 'job' (trabajo), while 'carga' ends with 'a' like 'load' (Spanish 'carga').
Explanation: 'Cargo' is a position or responsibility, while 'encargo' is a commission, assignment, or errand someone asks you to do.
Notes: 'Encargo' is more temporary and specific, while 'cargo' is usually more permanent and general.
Mnemonic: 'Encargo' has 'en-' prefix meaning something given or entrusted to you, while 'cargo' is something you hold or carry yourself.