gastar
Lemma Details
Translation: to spend; to use up; to waste; to wear out; to consume
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin vastāre ('to lay waste, devastate, destroy'), which came from vastus ('empty, desolate'). The initial 'v' changed to 'g' as Spanish evolved, a common phonetic shift. The English words 'vast' and 'waste' share the same Latin root, making a connection between the concepts of emptiness, destruction, and consumption of resources.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'gastar' as making your money go 'ga-ga-gone' when you spend it.
- Connect it to 'gastric' in English - both involve consumption (stomach consumes food, spending consumes money).
- Remember the phrase 'gas the car' - you're spending fuel when you drive.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'gastar' is commonly used in discussions about money management, budgeting, and consumption habits. The concept of 'gastar' also extends to non-monetary resources like time and energy.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'gastar' means 'to spend' or 'to waste', 'gustar' means 'to like' or 'to please'. They look and sound similar but have completely different meanings.
Notes: The confusion is common among beginners because both are common verbs with somewhat similar spelling.
Mnemonic: 'Gastar' has an 'a' like 'pay', while 'gustar' has a 'u' like 'you enjoy'.
Explanation: 'Gastar' refers to the action of spending, while 'costar' refers to what something costs or is worth.
Notes: These verbs are often used together in discussions about money and purchases.
Mnemonic: 'Costar' contains 'cost', which is what you pay; 'gastar' is the act of spending that cost.