deuda
Lemma Details
Translation: debt; obligation; liability; amount owed
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'debita', the plural form of 'debitum' meaning 'that which is owed', from the verb 'debere' (to owe). This shares the same Latin root as English words like 'debt', 'debit', and 'due'. The Spanish form evolved through sound changes typical of Latin-to-Spanish development, where the 'b' softened to 'u' in the consonant cluster 'bd'.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Tengo que pagar mis deudas a fin de mes.
I have to pay my debts at the end of the month.
La deuda nacional sigue aumentando cada año.
The national debt continues to increase every year.
Estoy libre de deudas por primera vez en mi vida.
I am debt-free for the first time in my life.
Te tengo una deuda de gratitud por tu ayuda.
I owe you a debt of gratitude for your help.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'deuda' as sounding like 'due-da', reminding you that something is 'due'.
- The 'eu' in 'deuda' sounds similar to the 'eb' in the English word 'debt'.
- Imagine someone saying 'I owe you da money' (deuda = money owed).
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, the concept of debt often carries strong social implications. Personal debts are taken very seriously, and there's often a strong cultural emphasis on paying what one owes. The term 'deuda externa' (foreign debt) has particular historical significance in Latin American countries, many of which have experienced economic crises related to international debt.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Deuda' means 'debt' while 'duda' means 'doubt'. They differ by just one letter but have completely different meanings.
Notes: These words are frequently confused by Spanish learners because they look and sound similar.
Mnemonic: 'Deuda' has an 'e' for 'expense' or 'economic obligation', while 'duda' has no 'e' just like doubt lacks certainty.
Explanation: 'Deuda' means 'debt' while 'duelo' means 'grief' or 'mourning'. They have different spellings and meanings but can sound similar in rapid speech.
Confused word:
Está en duelo por la pérdida de su padre.
He is in mourning for the loss of his father.
Notes: The pronunciation difference is clearer when spoken slowly.
Mnemonic: 'Duelo' relates to emotional pain (like a duel with emotions), while 'deuda' relates to financial pain.