emoción
Lemma Details
Translation: emotion; excitement; thrill; feeling
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'emotio', derived from 'emovere' (to move out, stir up, agitate), which combines 'e-' (out) and 'movere' (to move). The English cognate 'emotion' shares the same Latin root. The word captures the idea that emotions 'move' us or stir us from our normal state, creating internal movement or agitation.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
No pudo contener la emoción al ver a su hijo después de tantos años.
She couldn't contain her emotion upon seeing her son after so many years.
La película está llena de emoción y suspenso.
The movie is full of excitement and suspense.
Habló con emoción sobre su nuevo proyecto.
He spoke with excitement about his new project.
Las emociones básicas incluyen alegría, tristeza, miedo y enojo.
Basic emotions include joy, sadness, fear, and anger.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'emotion' in English - they're almost identical words.
- Remember that emotions cause 'motion' inside us - they move us.
- The 'e' in emoción can remind you that emotions often cause external expressions.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, emotions are often expressed more openly than in some English-speaking cultures. The concept of 'emoción' is central to many cultural expressions including music (especially in genres like flamenco), literature, and daily interactions. Spanish speakers may be more likely to describe themselves as 'emocionado/a' (moved or touched emotionally) in situations where English speakers might use more reserved language.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'emoción' refers to feelings or emotional states, 'moción' means 'motion' in the sense of a formal proposal or movement in a meeting or assembly.
This word:
Sintió una gran emoción al recibir el premio.
He felt great emotion upon receiving the award.
Confused word:
El comité presentó una moción para cambiar las reglas.
The committee presented a motion to change the rules.
Notes: The prefix 'e-' in 'emoción' indicates movement outward (expression), while 'moción' is about formal movement within a structured context.
Mnemonic: 'Emoción' has an 'e' for 'emotional', while 'moción' lacks this 'e' and refers to procedural movements.
Explanation: 'Emoción' is a general term for any feeling or emotional state, while 'conmoción' specifically refers to a shock, commotion, or strong disturbance (physical or emotional).
Confused word:
El accidente causó una conmoción en toda la ciudad.
The accident caused a commotion throughout the city.
Notes: 'Conmoción' often implies a more intense and sudden disturbance than the general term 'emoción'.
Mnemonic: Think of 'conmoción' as containing 'commotion' - it's about disruption, while 'emoción' is about feelings.