dolor
Lemma Details
Translation: pain; ache; sorrow; grief; distress
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'dolor' (pain, grief, sorrow), derived from the verb 'dolere' (to feel pain, to grieve). The English words 'dolorous' (expressing grief), 'condolence' (expression of sympathy), and 'indolent' (avoiding pain or discomfort) share this Latin root. The medical term 'analgesia' (absence of pain) was created as an opposite concept.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Siento un dolor agudo en la rodilla.
I feel a sharp pain in my knee.
El dolor de perder a un ser querido es indescriptible.
The pain of losing a loved one is indescribable.
Los analgésicos ayudan a aliviar el dolor.
Painkillers help relieve pain.
Su rostro reflejaba dolor y tristeza.
His face reflected pain and sadness.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'dolorous' in English, which means 'expressing great sorrow or distress'
- Remember the phrase 'Oh, the dolor!' to connect it with expressions of pain
- Associate with 'doleful' in English, which means 'sad and mournful'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'dolor' is used both for physical pain and emotional suffering. The concept appears prominently in religious contexts, especially in Catholic traditions where the 'Dolores' or sorrows of the Virgin Mary are commemorated. 'Nuestra Señora de los Dolores' (Our Lady of Sorrows) is a common devotion.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Dolor' means 'pain' while 'color' means 'color'. They differ by just one letter but have completely different meanings.
Notes: Both are masculine nouns in Spanish and follow similar grammatical patterns.
Mnemonic: 'Dolor' has an 'o' like 'ouch' (an expression of pain), while 'color' has a 'c' like 'colorful'.
Explanation: 'Dolor' means 'pain' while 'dulzor' means 'sweetness'. They sound somewhat similar but have opposite connotations.
This word:
El dolor de la traición es difícil de superar.
The pain of betrayal is difficult to overcome.
Notes: These words represent opposite sensations - one pleasant, one unpleasant.
Mnemonic: 'Dulzor' contains 'dulce' (sweet), while 'dolor' contains 'ole' (a sound often associated with pain).