chico
Lemma Details
Translation: small; little; young; boy; kid; guy
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From Latin 'ciccum' meaning 'trifle' or 'worthless thing'. The word evolved in Spanish to describe something small or of little value, before extending to describe young people, particularly boys. The feminine form 'chica' similarly refers to a girl or young woman. The diminutive nature of the original Latin term connects to the modern Spanish meaning of smallness or youth.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'chico' as similar to 'chick' in English (though for males), helping remember it refers to young people.
- The 'chi' sound is small and light, matching the meaning of 'small' or 'little'.
- Connect it to Chico Marx, the smallest of the Marx Brothers.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'chico' is a very common way to refer to boys or young men. It's also used as a term of endearment or friendly address among peers. In some Latin American countries, particularly Argentina, 'chico' can also refer to a boyfriend. The word has different connotations across Spanish-speaking regions, with some places preferring alternative terms like 'muchacho' or 'niño'.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'chico' refers to a boy or something small in masculine form, 'chica' is the feminine equivalent, referring to a girl or something small in feminine form.
Confused word:
La chica está leyendo un libro.
The girl is reading a book.
Notes: Both words can function as nouns (boy/girl) or adjectives (small).
Mnemonic: Chico ends in 'o' (masculine) while chica ends in 'a' (feminine), following the typical Spanish gender pattern.
Explanation: 'Chico' means small or boy, while 'rico' means rich, wealthy, or delicious.
Confused word:
La comida en ese restaurante es muy rica.
The food in that restaurant is very delicious.
Notes: 'Rico' can refer to wealth or to something tasty, while 'chico' refers to size or youth.
Mnemonic: Rico has the word 'rich' hidden in it, while chico starts with 'ch' for 'child' or 'compact'.