entusiasmo
Lemma Details
Translation: enthusiasm; excitement; passion; zeal
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Late Latin 'enthusiasmus', which comes from Ancient Greek 'ἐνθουσιασμός' (enthousiasmós), meaning 'inspiration or possession by a god'. The Greek term derives from 'ἔνθεος' (éntheos) meaning 'possessed by a god, inspired' (from 'ἐν' (en) 'in' + 'θεός' (theós) 'god'). The English cognate 'enthusiasm' shares this exact same etymology, making it a perfect cognate. Originally, it referred to divine inspiration or religious fervor before evolving to its modern meaning of intense enjoyment, interest, or approval.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los estudiantes mostraron mucho entusiasmo por el nuevo proyecto.
The students showed a lot of enthusiasm for the new project.
Habló de sus planes con gran entusiasmo.
He spoke about his plans with great enthusiasm.
Su entusiasmo por la música es contagioso.
His enthusiasm for music is contagious.
Recibieron la noticia con entusiasmo.
They received the news with enthusiasm.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'en-THEOS-iasmo' where 'theos' means 'god' in Greek - originally meaning 'inspired by god'
- Almost identical to English 'enthusiasm' with just a slight spelling difference
- Picture someone so excited they seem divinely inspired
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, showing 'entusiasmo' is generally viewed positively and is associated with being engaged and passionate. It's commonly used to describe reactions to sports, cultural events, and personal achievements. The concept is similar to its English counterpart but might be expressed more openly in Latin cultures where emotional expressiveness is often more valued.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'entusiasmo' refers to excitement and passionate interest, 'optimismo' refers to a positive outlook or hopefulness about the future.
Notes: Both are positive emotional states, but 'entusiasmo' is more active and expressive, while 'optimismo' is more of an outlook or attitude.
Mnemonic: 'Entusiasmo' is about energy and excitement (think 'enthused'), while 'optimismo' is about positive thinking (think 'optimal' outcomes).
Explanation: 'Entusiasmo' specifically refers to excitement and passionate interest, while 'emoción' is a broader term that encompasses any strong feeling (joy, sadness, fear, etc.).
Confused word:
No pudo contener su emoción al recibir la noticia.
He couldn't contain his emotion upon receiving the news.
Notes: 'Entusiasmo' is always positive, while 'emoción' can be positive or negative depending on context.
Mnemonic: 'Entusiasmo' is specifically about excited interest (like English 'enthusiasm'), while 'emoción' covers any strong feeling (like English 'emotion').