casita
Lemma Details
Translation: little house; small house; cottage
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Diminutive of 'casa' (house) with the suffix '-ita', which indicates smallness or endearment in Spanish. 'Casa' comes from Latin 'casa' meaning 'hut' or 'cottage'. The diminutive form adds affection to the basic meaning, making 'casita' not just a physically small house but often one that is cherished or cozy.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Compramos una casita en la playa para los fines de semana.
We bought a small house at the beach for weekends.
Mi abuela vive en una casita en el campo.
My grandmother lives in a cottage in the countryside.
Construyeron una casita para los invitados en el jardín.
They built a small house for guests in the garden.
Mnemonics
- Think 'casa' (house) + '-ita' (little) = 'little house'
- Sounds like 'cozy-ta', reminding you that a casita is often a cozy, small dwelling
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, diminutives like 'casita' often carry emotional significance beyond just indicating size. A 'casita' might refer to a vacation home, a guest house on a property, or simply a beloved small residence. In some regions like Puerto Rico, 'casita' can refer to a specific type of small rural house that represents cultural heritage.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'casita' means 'small house', 'cajita' means 'small box'. They sound similar but refer to completely different objects.
Notes: Both words use the diminutive suffix '-ita' to indicate smallness or affection.
Mnemonic: 'Casita' has 'casa' (house) in it, while 'cajita' has 'caja' (box) in it.
Explanation: 'Casita' is a diminutive form expressing affection, while 'caseta' typically refers to a functional small structure like a booth, shed, or kennel.
Confused word:
El perro duerme en su caseta en el jardín.
The dog sleeps in its kennel in the garden.
Notes: Both derive from 'casa' but have different connotations and typical uses.
Mnemonic: 'Casita' ends with '-ita' (affectionate), while 'caseta' ends with '-eta' (more functional).