llanura
Lemma Details
Translation: plain; flatland; prairie; level ground; flat terrain
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from the Spanish adjective 'llano' (flat, level) plus the suffix '-ura' which forms abstract nouns. 'Llano' comes from Latin 'planus' (flat, level, plain), which is also the source of English words like 'plane', 'plain', and 'plan'. The initial Latin 'pl-' evolved to 'll-' in Spanish, a characteristic sound change in the language's development from Latin.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
La llanura pampeana es una de las regiones más fértiles de Argentina.
The Pampas plain is one of the most fertile regions in Argentina.
Desde la cima de la montaña podíamos ver toda la llanura.
From the mountain top we could see the entire plain.
Los gauchos viven en las llanuras y se dedican a la ganadería.
The gauchos live in the plains and are dedicated to cattle ranching.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'llano' (flat) + '-ura' (making it a noun) = 'flatness' or 'flat land'
- The 'll' sound in Spanish often comes from Latin 'pl', so connect 'llanura' with English 'plain'
- Visualize a vast, flat landscape when you hear 'llanura'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, especially in South America, llanuras are important geographical features that have shaped local cultures and economies. The vast plains of Argentina (the Pampas), Venezuela (the Llanos), and other regions are central to national identity and traditional ways of life, including cattle ranching and agriculture.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'llanura' refers to a physical flat landscape, 'llaneza' means simplicity, plainness, or frankness in behavior or style.
Notes: Both words derive from 'llano' (flat, plain) but have developed different meanings.
Mnemonic: 'Llanura' ends with '-ura' like 'natura' (nature), so it's about natural landscapes; 'llaneza' ends with '-eza' like 'simpleza', so it's about character.
Explanation: 'Llanura' and 'planicie' are very close synonyms, both meaning 'plain' or 'flatland', but 'planicie' is slightly more formal or technical.
Confused word:
El geógrafo estudió la planicie continental.
The geographer studied the continental plain.
Notes: 'Llanura' is more commonly used in everyday language.
Mnemonic: 'Planicie' sounds more like English 'plain' and is often used in more technical contexts.