denominar
Lemma Details
Translation: to name; to call; to designate; to denominate
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'denominare', composed of 'de' (completely) + 'nominare' (to name), which comes from 'nomen' (name). This shares the same Latin root as English words like 'denominate', 'denomination', and 'nominal'. The prefix 'de-' intensifies the action of naming, suggesting a complete or official designation.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Se denomina 'siesta' al descanso que se toma después de comer.
The rest taken after eating is called a 'siesta'.
Los científicos denominaron la nueva especie en honor al descubridor.
The scientists named the new species in honor of the discoverer.
Esta región se denomina 'la costa del sol'.
This region is called 'the sunshine coast'.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'denomination' in English (like different denominations of currency) to remember it means 'to name' or 'to designate'
- The 'nomin' part relates to 'name' (as in 'nominate')
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Often used in formal or official contexts when giving something a specific name or designation. In mathematics, it's used when referring to denominators in fractions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'denominar' means 'to name' or 'to designate' something officially, 'nominar' specifically means 'to nominate' someone for a position or award.
Confused word:
Nominaron a la película para cinco premios Oscar.
They nominated the film for five Oscar awards.
Notes: Both come from the Latin root for 'name' but have different applications in modern Spanish.
Mnemonic: 'Denominar' has 'de' (completely) + 'nominar' (to name), while 'nominar' is just about proposing a name for consideration.
Explanation: 'Denominar' is about naming or designating, while 'determinar' means 'to determine' or 'to decide'.
Confused word:
El juez determinó que el acusado era inocente.
The judge determined that the accused was innocent.
Notes: Both start with 'de-' but have different meanings and applications.
Mnemonic: Think of 'denominar' for naming (denomination) and 'determinar' for determining (determination).