la vaca sagrada

Lemma Details

Translation: sacred cow; untouchable institution; something that cannot be criticized

Part of Speech: idiom

Etymology: This Spanish idiom is a direct calque from the English expression 'sacred cow', which itself derives from the Hindu veneration of cows as sacred animals. In both languages, it refers metaphorically to something or someone that is immune from criticism or questioning. The term entered Spanish from English cultural influence, preserving both the literal meaning ('la vaca' = 'the cow', 'sagrada' = 'sacred') and the figurative sense.

Commonality: 60%

Guessability: 80%

Register: neutral

Mnemonics

  • Think of a cow wearing a halo to remember this refers to something treated as untouchable or beyond criticism.
  • Imagine trying to criticize a cow in India (where they're considered sacred) and being met with shock - just like when you criticize a 'sacred cow' institution.

Related Words, Phrases & Idioms

estar por encima de toda crítica

Unknown

No translation

ser intocable

Unknown

No translation

tabú

Unknown

No translation

Synonyms

el intocable

Unknown

No translation

lo incuestionable

Unknown

No translation

Antonyms

el chivo expiatorio

Unknown

No translation

el blanco de críticas

Unknown

No translation

Cultural Context

This expression is commonly used in political, social, and organizational contexts to refer to institutions, traditions, or individuals that are considered beyond criticism. While the concept exists in both Spanish and English-speaking cultures, it's particularly relevant in discussions about entrenched power structures or traditions that resist change.

Easily Confused With

la vaca loca

Unknown

No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: While 'la vaca sagrada' refers to an untouchable institution or person, 'la vaca loca' (mad cow) refers to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) or is used colloquially to describe someone acting crazy.

Notes: Both expressions contain 'vaca' (cow) but have completely different meanings and connotations.

Mnemonic: 'Sagrada' (sacred) means respected and untouchable; 'loca' (mad/crazy) means diseased or acting erratically.