ganar
Lemma Details
Translation: to win; to earn; to gain; to make (money)
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Old Spanish ganar, from Gothic *饜尣饜尠饜尳饜尠饜尳饜尠饜尳 (*ganan膮, 'to gain, obtain'), from Proto-Germanic *ganan膮n ('to be suitable, to fit'). The Gothic term was borrowed into Vulgar Latin as *ganare. English 'gain' comes from the same Germanic root, but via Old French gaaignier, making 'gain' and 'ganar' distant cognates.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ganar' as related to English 'gain' - both involve acquiring something.
- Remember 'ganar' by thinking of a 'gainer' - someone who gains or wins something.
- The 'gan' sound in 'ganar' can remind you of 'gain' in English.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'ganar' is used broadly in contexts of achievement, competition, and financial success. The concept of 'ganarse el respeto' (earning respect) is particularly important in many Hispanic cultures where personal honor and reputation are highly valued.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'ganar' means 'to earn/win', 'gastar' means 'to spend'. They represent opposite financial actions.
Confused word:
Gasto dinero en comida.
I spend money on food.
Notes: These verbs often appear together when discussing financial matters: 'gano mucho pero gasto m谩s' (I earn a lot but spend more).
Mnemonic: Ganar brings money IN, gastar sends money OUT.
Explanation: 'Ganar' means to win or earn, while 'guardar' means to keep or save.
Confused word:
Guard贸 el premio en una caja.
He kept the prize in a box.
Notes: Both start with 'g' and have similar sounds, but different meanings in the acquisition process.
Mnemonic: First you 'ganar' (win/earn), then you 'guardar' (keep/save) what you've won.