ciudadano de a pie
Lemma Details
Translation: ordinary citizen; average person; man in the street; common man
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This Spanish phrase combines 'ciudadano' (citizen) with the prepositional phrase 'de a pie' (on foot). The expression originated to distinguish common citizens who traveled on foot from those of higher social status who could afford horses or carriages. The construction parallels similar expressions in other languages that use 'on foot' as a metaphor for ordinary status.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los políticos no entienden los problemas de los ciudadanos de a pie.
Politicians don't understand the problems of the common people.
Las nuevas leyes afectan principalmente a los ciudadanos de a pie.
The new laws primarily affect ordinary citizens.
Como ciudadano de a pie, me preocupa el aumento de los precios.
As an average person, I'm concerned about the rising prices.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'de a pie' (on foot) as someone who walks rather than rides in luxury vehicles - an ordinary person.
- Imagine citizens walking on their feet (a pie) through daily life, representing the common experience.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in political and social discourse to refer to regular citizens as opposed to politicians, celebrities, or people in positions of power. It's often invoked when discussing how policies affect everyday people or when contrasting the experiences of ordinary citizens with those of the elite.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'ciudadano de a pie' refers to an ordinary citizen regardless of moral standing, 'ciudadano de bien' specifically refers to a law-abiding, upright citizen.
Confused word:
Los ciudadanos de bien respetan las leyes y normas sociales.
Upright citizens respect laws and social norms.
Notes: Both phrases describe citizens, but with different emphasis on their characteristics.
Mnemonic: 'De a pie' focuses on social status (on foot), while 'de bien' focuses on moral status (good).