extranjero
Lemma Details
Translation: foreigner; foreign; abroad; overseas; alien
Part of Speech: noun, adjective
Etymology: From Old Spanish 'estrangero', derived from Latin 'extraneus' meaning 'external' or 'strange'. The Latin root 'extra-' means 'outside' or 'beyond', which is also found in English words like 'extraordinary', 'extraterrestrial', and 'extracurricular'. The concept directly relates to someone or something from outside one's own country or native land.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think 'extra' + 'ranger' – like someone ranging extra far from home.
- Sounds like 'strange-hero' – a hero from a strange or foreign land.
- Connect it to 'extraneous' in English, meaning something external or not belonging.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, the term 'extranjero' is neutral but can carry different connotations depending on the context. Spain and Latin American countries have varying immigration histories and policies, which can affect how the term is perceived. In tourist areas, 'extranjeros' are often welcomed for their economic contribution, while in political contexts, immigration policies regarding 'extranjeros' can be contentious topics.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'extranjero' means 'foreigner' or 'foreign', 'extraño' means 'strange', 'weird', or 'unfamiliar'. They share etymological roots but have different meanings in modern Spanish.
Notes: Both words derive from Latin 'extraneus', but 'extranjero' specifically refers to national origin while 'extraño' refers to unfamiliarity or oddness.
Mnemonic: 'Extranjero' has 'njer' in the middle, think 'not from here'; 'extraño' has 'ñ', think 'strange' with its unusual letter.
Explanation: 'Extranjero' specifically refers to someone from another country, while 'forastero' refers to someone from outside a particular area but could be from the same country.
Notes: 'Extranjero' is more commonly used in official contexts like immigration, while 'forastero' has a more local, sometimes rural connotation.
Mnemonic: 'Extranjero' contains 'extra' like 'extra far away' (another country); 'forastero' sounds like 'forest-ero', someone from outside the village (in the forest).