dinero suelto
Lemma Details
Translation: loose change; small change; coins
Part of Speech: noun phrase
Etymology: The phrase combines 'dinero' (money) from Latin 'denarius', a Roman silver coin, with 'suelto' (loose, unattached) from Latin 'solutus', past participle of 'solvere' meaning 'to loosen'. The combination refers to small denomination coins that are carried loosely rather than in bills or larger denominations.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- 'Dinero suelto' sounds like 'dinner is loose' - imagine coins falling out of your pocket during dinner.
- Think of 'suelto' as 'solution' - coins are the solution when you need to make exact payments.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, having 'dinero suelto' is important for daily transactions, especially in markets, for public transportation, and for tipping. In some Latin American countries, coins can be scarce, making 'dinero suelto' particularly valuable for small purchases.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Dinero suelto' specifically refers to coins or small change, while 'dinero en efectivo' refers to cash in general (both coins and bills).
Confused word:
Prefiero pagar con dinero en efectivo en lugar de tarjeta.
I prefer to pay with cash instead of card.
Notes: While 'dinero suelto' is part of 'dinero en efectivo', the latter is a broader category that includes all physical currency.
Mnemonic: 'Suelto' means loose or unattached, like coins jingling in your pocket; 'efectivo' is more formal like 'effective payment'.
Explanation: 'Dinero suelto' specifically refers to the coins themselves, while 'cambio' can refer to the process of exchanging a larger denomination for smaller ones or the resulting smaller denominations.
Notes: In many contexts, these terms can be used interchangeably, but 'cambio' has the additional meaning of 'exchange' or 'change' in other contexts.
Mnemonic: Think of 'dinero suelto' as what you already have, while 'cambio' is what you get back after a transaction.