estable
Lemma Details
Translation: stable; steady; firm; constant; secure; reliable
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'stabilis' meaning 'firm, steady, stable', which comes from the verb 'stare' meaning 'to stand'. The English word 'stable' shares the same Latin root, making them cognates. The root 'sta-' appears in many words related to standing or remaining in place across Indo-European languages, including English words like 'stand', 'stay', and 'establish'.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Busco un trabajo estable.
I'm looking for a stable job.
Su condición médica es estable.
His medical condition is stable.
Necesitamos una mesa más estable.
We need a more stable table.
La economía del país es bastante estable.
The country's economy is quite stable.
Tienen una relación estable desde hace años.
They've had a stable relationship for years.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'estable' as 'stay-able' - something that's able to stay in place.
- Remember that a stable is where horses stand (stay) - connecting to the Latin root 'stare' (to stand).
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'estable' is commonly used in economic contexts to describe a stable economy or employment situation, which is particularly valued in regions that have experienced economic volatility.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'estable' is an adjective meaning 'stable', 'establecer' is a verb meaning 'to establish' or 'to set up'. They share the same Latin root but have different grammatical functions.
Notes: Both words relate to stability and permanence, but in different ways - one describes a state of being stable, the other the action of making something permanent.
Mnemonic: 'Estable' ends in '-ble' like many Spanish adjectives (amable, notable), while 'establecer' ends in '-cer' like many verbs (conocer, ofrecer).
Explanation: 'Estable' (stable, steady) is an adjective, while 'establo' is a noun meaning 'stable' (the building where animals are kept). They look and sound similar but have different meanings and uses.
Notes: Both words actually share the same Latin origin (stabilis/stabulum), but evolved to serve different grammatical functions in modern Spanish.
Mnemonic: 'Establo' has an 'o' at the end, think of the 'O' as the round opening of a stable door.