irse
Lemma Details
Translation: to go away; to leave; to depart; to take off; to disappear
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Irse is the reflexive form of the verb 'ir' (to go), which comes from Latin 'ire' meaning 'to go'. The reflexive pronoun 'se' adds the sense of movement away from a place. While 'ir' simply means 'to go', 'irse' specifically implies leaving or departing from somewhere. This reflexive construction is common in Spanish to indicate movement away from a reference point.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'irse' as 'I-remove-self' - the reflexive form indicates removing yourself from a location.
- The 'se' in 'irse' suggests 'separation' - you're separating yourself from where you are.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, saying goodbye often involves phrases with 'irse'. The expression '¡Vámonos!' (Let's go!) is particularly common in Mexico and other Latin American countries as an enthusiastic call to action. In Spain, 'Me voy' (I'm leaving) is a common way to announce one's departure in social situations.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'ir' simply means 'to go' (movement toward a destination), 'irse' specifically means 'to leave' or 'to go away' (emphasizing departure from a place).
Notes: The reflexive form 'irse' emphasizes the act of departure, while 'ir' focuses on the movement toward a destination.
Mnemonic: If there's 'se' after 'ir', you're leaving the scene.
Explanation: 'Salir' means 'to go out' or 'to exit' (emphasizing leaving an enclosed space), while 'irse' is more general and means 'to leave' or 'to go away' (from any location).
Confused word:
Salgo del edificio a las cinco.
I exit the building at five.
Notes: 'Salir' often implies crossing a threshold or boundary, while 'irse' emphasizes the act of departure itself.
Mnemonic: 'Salir' is about exiting a specific place; 'irse' is about leaving in general.