joven
Lemma Details
Translation: young; youthful
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From Latin 'juvenis' (young), which is also the source of English 'juvenile', 'rejuvenate'
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'juvenile' in English
- Remember 'rejuvenate' means to make young again
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
Often used as both adjective and noun. In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'joven' can be used as a respectful way to address a young person, similar to 'young man' or 'young lady' in English.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both mean 'young', 'juvenil' is more formal and often used in official contexts, while 'joven' is more common in everyday speech
This word:
Es un hombre joven
He is a young man
Confused word:
El comportamiento juvenil
Juvenile behavior
Notes: 'Joven' can be both noun and adjective, while 'juvenil' is only an adjective
Mnemonic: 'Juvenil' sounds more like 'juvenile' - more formal