coger
Lemma Details
Translation: to take; to grab; to catch; to pick up; to hold; to get; to pick
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'colligere' meaning 'to gather together, collect', which comes from 'com-' (together) + 'legere' (to gather). This Latin root also gave English words like 'collect', 'college', and 'colleague'. The semantic evolution from 'gathering' to 'taking/grabbing' shows how meaning can shift over time. In Spain, the word maintains its original meaning, while in many Latin American countries it has acquired vulgar connotations.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral in Spain, vulgar in many Latin American countries
Mnemonics
- Think of 'co-getting' something - you're getting or taking something.
- Remember its connection to 'collect' - both involve taking or gathering things.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
This word has a significant regional variation in usage. In Spain, it's a common, everyday verb with no offensive connotations. However, in many Latin American countries (particularly Mexico, Argentina, and other South American countries), it has acquired a vulgar sexual meaning and is avoided in polite conversation. In these regions, alternatives like 'tomar' or 'agarrar' are used instead. This regional difference is one of the most notable examples of how Spanish vocabulary can vary dramatically across different Spanish-speaking countries.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'coger' means 'to take' or 'to grab' something, 'recoger' specifically means 'to pick up' or 'to collect' something that was left somewhere or needs to be gathered.
Notes: In regions where 'coger' has vulgar connotations, 'recoger' generally doesn't carry the same taboo and can be used safely.
Mnemonic: Think of 're-coger' as 'again-taking' something that was already somewhere else.
Explanation: 'Coger' means to take or grab something, while 'escoger' means to choose or select from options.
Notes: 'Escoger' involves a decision process, while 'coger' is simply the action of taking.
Mnemonic: Think of 'escoger' as 'es + coger' where 'es' reminds you of 'select' - you're selecting what to take.