entrar
Lemma Details
Translation: to enter; to go in; to come in; to get in
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin intrare ('to enter, go into'), derived from intra ('within, inside'). The English word 'enter' shares the same Latin root, making them cognates. The Latin intrare was formed from the prefix in- ('in, into') and the comparative suffix -ter, which indicated movement toward something.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'enter' in English - they sound similar and mean the same thing.
- Imagine a door with 'ENTRar' written on it, inviting you to enter.
- The 'en' at the beginning suggests movement inward (en = in).
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
A very common verb in Spanish used in many contexts beyond physical entry. It appears in numerous idiomatic expressions and is essential for everyday communication.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'entrar' means 'to enter', 'encontrar' means 'to find' or 'to meet'. They look similar but have different meanings and conjugation patterns.
Notes: The conjugation patterns differ: 'yo entro' (I enter) vs. 'yo encuentro' (I find).
Mnemonic: 'Encontrar' contains 'contra' (against) - when you find something, you come against or face it.
Explanation: 'Entrar' is a verb meaning 'to enter', while 'entre' is a preposition meaning 'between' or 'among'.
Notes: 'Entre' can also be a conjugated form of 'entrar' (third person singular subjunctive), adding to potential confusion.
Mnemonic: 'Entre' ends with an 'e' like 'between' - both words refer to positioning.