llevar encima
Lemma Details
Translation: to carry on oneself; to have on one's person; to wear; to carry with oneself
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the verb 'llevar' (to carry, to take, to wear) with the adverb 'encima' (on top, above). 'Llevar' comes from Latin 'levare' meaning 'to lift, raise, lighten', which is related to English words like 'elevate' and 'levitate'. 'Encima' derives from Latin 'in' (on) + 'cyma' (top, summit), with the latter coming from Greek 'kyma' meaning 'wave, swell'. The combination creates a phrase that literally means 'to carry on top' but is used to indicate carrying something on one's person.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
No llevo encima suficiente dinero para pagar esto.
I don't have enough money on me to pay for this.
Siempre llevo encima mi identificación.
I always carry my ID on me.
¿Llevas encima las llaves del coche?
Do you have the car keys on you?
Nunca salgo sin llevar encima mi teléfono móvil.
I never go out without carrying my mobile phone.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'llevar' as 'levy' (to collect) and 'encima' as 'on top' - you're collecting things on top of your person.
- Imagine 'encima' as 'on see-ma' (on see myself) - things you can see on yourself.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in contexts related to personal possessions, especially when referring to money, identification, or valuables. In Spain and Latin America, it's often used when discussing safety precautions (e.g., warning tourists not to carry too much money on them).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'llevar encima' refers to carrying something on one's person (like in pockets or a bag), 'llevar puesto' specifically refers to wearing clothing or accessories.
Confused word:
Llevo puesto un abrigo negro.
I'm wearing a black coat.
Notes: 'Llevar encima' is more general for any items carried, while 'llevar puesto' is specifically for items worn on the body.
Mnemonic: 'Encima' = on me (like in pockets); 'puesto' = put on (like clothing)
Explanation: 'Llevar encima' implies intentional carrying, while 'tener encima' can sometimes have a more figurative meaning of having something weighing on you (like pressure or responsibility).
Confused word:
Tengo encima mucha presión por el examen.
I have a lot of pressure on me because of the exam.
Notes: Both can be used literally, but 'tener encima' more commonly extends to figurative burdens.
Mnemonic: 'Llevar' = actively carrying; 'tener' = having/bearing