importado
Lemma Details
Translation: imported; brought in from abroad; foreign-made
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from the verb 'importar' (to import), which comes from Latin 'importare' meaning 'to bring in, introduce'. The Latin term combines 'in-' (into) and 'portare' (to carry). This shares the same Latin root as the English word 'import'. The '-ado' ending is the past participle form in Spanish, equivalent to '-ed' in English.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Sounds like 'imported' in English with just a slight pronunciation difference
- Think of 'port' in the middle of the word - goods come through ports when imported
- The '-ado' ending is like '-ed' in English, showing it's already been brought in
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In many Spanish-speaking countries, imported goods often carry prestige and are sometimes perceived as higher quality than domestic products, especially in categories like electronics, cars, and luxury items. However, there's also a growing movement to support local products in many Latin American countries.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Importado' means 'imported' while 'importante' means 'important'. They look similar but have different meanings despite sharing the same root.
Notes: Both words derive from the same Latin root, but 'importante' comes from the present participle form while 'importado' comes from the past participle.
Mnemonic: 'ImportADO' ends with 'ado' like many past participles (e.g., 'comprado'), while 'importANTE' ends with 'ante' like many adjectives describing qualities (e.g., 'interesante').
Explanation: 'Importado' refers to goods brought into a country, while 'exportado' refers to goods sent out of a country to another.
Notes: These are opposite processes in international trade.
Mnemonic: 'Importado' starts with 'im-' for 'in' (coming in), while 'exportado' starts with 'ex-' for 'out' (going out).