lamentar
Lemma Details
Translation: to regret; to lament; to mourn; to deplore; to bemoan
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'lamentari' meaning 'to wail, mourn, weep, lament'. The English cognate 'lament' shares the same Latin root. The word evokes the expression of grief or sorrow, originally referring to audible expressions of mourning.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Lamento mucho tu pérdida.
I deeply regret your loss.
El gobierno lamenta los daños causados.
The government deplores the damage caused.
Lamentamos informarle que su solicitud ha sido rechazada.
We regret to inform you that your application has been rejected.
Siempre lamentará no haber estudiado más.
He will always regret not having studied more.
Mnemonics
- Think of the English word 'lament' which means the same thing.
- Imagine someone saying 'LA-MEN-TAR' while crying dramatically.
- Associate with 'la mentira' (the lie) - something you might regret later.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'lamentar' is commonly used in formal apologies and expressions of condolence. It appears frequently in news reporting when discussing unfortunate events.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Lamentar' means 'to regret' while 'alimentar' means 'to feed'. They look similar but have completely different meanings.
Confused word:
Necesito alimentar a mi mascota.
I need to feed my pet.
Notes: The 'l' in 'lamentar' can be associated with 'llorar' (to cry), while the 'ali' in 'alimentar' connects to food and nourishment.
Mnemonic: 'Alimentar' starts with 'ali-' which can remind you of 'alimento' (food).
Explanation: 'Lamentar' means 'to regret' while 'levantar' means 'to lift' or 'to raise'. Both start with 'l' and have similar structure.
Confused word:
Voy a levantar esta caja.
I'm going to lift this box.
Notes: 'Lamentar' deals with emotions, while 'levantar' deals with physical movement.
Mnemonic: 'Levantar' contains 'levant' which sounds like 'elevate'.