despejado
Lemma Details
Translation: clear; cloudless; unclouded; unobstructed; open; tidy; uncluttered
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from the verb 'despejar' (to clear), which comes from Latin 'expeditare' meaning 'to free from impediments'. The prefix 'des-' indicates removal or negation, while the root 'pej-' relates to obstacles or hindrances. The English word 'expedite' shares the same Latin root, both conveying the idea of removing obstacles to make something proceed more smoothly.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El cielo está despejado hoy.
The sky is clear today.
Necesito tener la mente despejada para estudiar.
I need to have a clear mind to study.
Mantén tu escritorio despejado para trabajar mejor.
Keep your desk uncluttered to work better.
El camino está despejado, podemos continuar.
The path is clear, we can continue.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'despejado' as 'de-speck-ado' – when something is 'despejado', all the specks (clouds, clutter) have been removed.
- Connect it with 'expedition' in English – both involve clearing a path forward.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, especially those with variable weather patterns, 'despejado' is commonly used in weather forecasts to indicate clear skies. It's also frequently used metaphorically to describe mental clarity or uncluttered spaces.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Despejado' means 'clear' or 'unobstructed', while 'despegado' means 'detached' or 'unstuck'. They differ by just one letter but have quite different meanings.
Notes: The verbs they come from also differ: 'despejar' (to clear) vs. 'despegar' (to take off, to detach).
Mnemonic: 'Despejado' has a 'j' like 'journey' – a journey needs a clear path. 'Despegado' has a 'g' like 'glue' – something that was stuck (glued) but is now detached.
Explanation: 'Despejado' refers to something clear or unobstructed, while 'despierto' means 'awake' or 'alert'.
Confused word:
Estoy despierto desde las seis.
I've been awake since six.
Notes: Both can metaphorically refer to mental states, but 'despejado' emphasizes clarity while 'despierto' emphasizes alertness.
Mnemonic: 'Despierto' contains 'pier' which sounds like 'peer' – you need to be awake to peer at something.