gris
Lemma Details
Translation: gray; grey
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Comes from Old French 'gris', which has Germanic origins related to Proto-Germanic *grīsaz (gray-haired, elderly). The English word 'gray/grey' shares the same Germanic roots, making them cognates. The word has remained relatively stable in form and meaning since medieval times.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Lleva un traje gris para la entrevista.
He's wearing a gray suit for the interview.
El cielo está gris hoy.
The sky is gray today.
Su vida se ha vuelto gris desde que perdió su trabajo.
His life has become dull since he lost his job.
Hay muchas zonas grises en esta ley.
There are many gray areas in this law.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'grease' which is often grayish in color.
- Sounds like the English word 'grease' which can leave gray stains.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish culture, 'gris' often carries connotations of dullness or lack of excitement beyond just the color. The phrase 'una persona gris' describes someone unremarkable or boring. In art and design contexts, it's used similarly to English.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Gris' means 'gray/grey' while 'gripe' means 'flu' or 'influenza'.
Notes: The pronunciation is different: 'gris' is pronounced with a single syllable, while 'gripe' has two syllables.
Mnemonic: Remember: 'gripe' has an extra syllable and makes you 'grip' your tissues when you're sick.
Explanation: 'Gris' is the color gray, while 'grito' means 'scream' or 'shout'.
Confused word:
Escuché un grito en la noche.
I heard a scream in the night.
Notes: While they both start with 'gri', they have completely different meanings and uses.
Mnemonic: 'Grito' contains the sound 'to' which reminds you of the action - something you do with your mouth.