llamar a la puerta
Lemma Details
Translation: to knock on the door; to knock at the door
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines 'llamar' (to call, from Latin 'clamare' meaning 'to shout, cry out') with 'puerta' (door, from Latin 'porta'). The construction uses 'a la' (to the) to create the idiomatic expression for knocking. The verb 'llamar' has evolved from its original meaning of vocally calling to include the physical action of knocking to get someone's attention.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'llamar' as 'to call' with your knuckles rather than your voice.
- Imagine you're 'calling to the door' with your hand instead of your voice.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is a standard expression used throughout Spanish-speaking countries. In some regions, 'tocar la puerta' might be more common, but 'llamar a la puerta' is widely understood.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both use the verb 'llamar', 'llamar a la puerta' refers to physically knocking on a door, whereas 'llamar por teléfono' means to make a phone call.
Notes: The verb 'llamar' has the general meaning of 'to call' or 'to summon', but the context determines whether it's physical (knocking) or vocal (phoning).
Mnemonic: For 'llamar a la puerta', visualize knocking with your hand; for 'llamar por teléfono', visualize holding a phone.
Explanation: Both phrases mean essentially the same thing, but 'llamar a la puerta' uses the preposition 'a' (to) while 'tocar la puerta' uses the verb 'tocar' (to touch) without a preposition.
Notes: Both expressions are commonly used and interchangeable in most contexts.
Mnemonic: 'Llamar a' emphasizes calling for attention, while 'tocar' emphasizes the physical touching.