de origen estadounidense
Lemma Details
Translation: of American origin; of US origin; American-made
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'de' (of/from), 'origen' (origin - from Latin 'origo'), and 'estadounidense' (American/from the United States). 'Estadounidense' is derived from 'Estados Unidos' (United States) + '-ense' (a suffix indicating origin or belonging). Unlike English, which uses 'American' for US citizens, Spanish distinguishes between 'americano' (referring to the entire continent) and 'estadounidense' (specifically from the USA).
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Este coche es de origen estadounidense.
This car is of American origin.
La mayoría de los productos de origen estadounidense son caros en este país.
Most products of American origin are expensive in this country.
Ella prefiere la música de origen estadounidense.
She prefers music of American origin.
Mnemonics
- Remember 'estadounidense' by thinking of 'Estados Unidos' (United States) + '-ense' (from).
- Think of 'origen' as similar to English 'origin' with just a slight spelling difference.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in product descriptions, immigration forms, and discussions about cultural influence. Spanish speakers are often careful to distinguish between 'estadounidense' (from the USA) and 'americano' (from the Americas) as many Latin Americans consider themselves Americans too, in the continental sense.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'De origen americano' can refer to anything from North, Central, or South America, while 'de origen estadounidense' specifically refers to the United States.
Notes: In Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Latin America, the distinction between 'americano' (continental) and 'estadounidense' (from the USA) is important and politically sensitive.
Mnemonic: 'Estadounidense' contains 'Estados Unidos' (United States), making it specifically about the USA.