debajo de
Lemma Details
Translation: under; underneath; beneath; below
Part of Speech: preposition
Etymology: Derived from the combination of 'de' (from) + 'bajo' (low) + 'de' (of/from). The word 'bajo' comes from Latin 'bassus' meaning 'low' or 'short'. This compound preposition literally means 'from below of' but functions as 'under/beneath' in modern Spanish.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'de-bajo-de' as 'of-low-of', indicating something is in a low position relative to something else.
- The 'bajo' part sounds like 'base' in English - something is at the base or below something else.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Used frequently in everyday Spanish to indicate physical position. Unlike English 'under' which can sometimes be used metaphorically (e.g., 'under pressure'), 'debajo de' is primarily used for physical positioning.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'bajo' can also mean 'under' as a preposition, 'debajo de' is more specific about position. 'Bajo' can also be an adjective meaning 'low' or 'short'.
Confused word:
Estamos bajo mucha presión.
We are under a lot of pressure.
Notes: 'Bajo' is more versatile and can be used in metaphorical contexts, while 'debajo de' is primarily for physical positioning.
Mnemonic: 'Debajo de' is more specific and longer - it refers specifically to physical position underneath something.
Explanation: 'Abajo' is an adverb meaning 'down' or 'downstairs', while 'debajo de' is a preposition requiring an object.
Confused word:
Vamos abajo para cenar.
Let's go downstairs to eat.
Notes: 'Abajo' indicates a general downward direction, while 'debajo de' specifies a position relative to another object.
Mnemonic: 'Debajo de' needs something after it (what is it under?), while 'abajo' stands alone.