descorrer la cortina
Lemma: descorrer la cortina
Translation: to draw back the curtain; to pull back the curtain; to open the curtain; to reveal; to disclose (phrase)
Etymology: This phrase combines 'descorrer' (to draw back, to pull back) with 'la cortina' (the curtain). 'Descorrer' comes from the prefix 'des-' (indicating reversal) and 'correr' (to run). 'Cortina' derives from Latin 'cortina' (curtain, veil), related to English 'curtain' through the same Latin root.
Example Usage
El actor descorrió la cortina para saludar al público.
The actor drew back the curtain to greet the audience.
Su investigación descorrió la cortina sobre la corrupción en el gobierno.
His investigation pulled back the curtain on government corruption.
Descorre la cortina para que entre más luz.
Draw back the curtain so more light can come in.
Mnemonics
- 'Des-correr' means to 'un-run' the curtain, or pull it back.
- Think of 'descorrer' as 'dis-course' - changing the course of the curtain.
- Visualize someone pulling back a theater curtain to reveal a performance - descorrer la cortina to reveal what was hidden.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is used both literally (for the physical action of opening curtains) and figuratively (to reveal something previously hidden or unknown). In Spanish culture, it can be used metaphorically in contexts of revealing truths or secrets.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'descorrer la cortina' means to open or draw back the curtain, 'correr la cortina' means the opposite - to close or draw the curtain.
Notes: The prefix 'des-' is key to understanding the difference between these opposite actions.
Mnemonic: Remember 'des-' as a prefix often indicates reversal or removal, so 'descorrer' is the opposite of 'correr' when talking about curtains.
Explanation: 'Descorrer la cortina' means to open the curtain, while 'decorar la cortina' means to decorate the curtain.
Notes: These phrases sound similar but have completely different meanings and contexts.
Mnemonic: Think of 'descorrer' as 'dis-course' (changing position) vs. 'decorar' as 'decorate' (changing appearance).