llevar puesto
Lemma Details
Translation: to wear; to have on; to be wearing
Part of Speech: verbal phrase
Etymology: This verbal phrase combines 'llevar' (to carry, to take) with 'puesto' (the past participle of 'poner', meaning 'to put'). Literally, it means 'to carry put on', which evolved to mean wearing clothing or accessories. 'Llevar' comes from Latin 'levare' (to raise, to lift), while 'puesto' derives from Latin 'positus' (placed, positioned). The combination creates a concept similar to the English 'to have on' where something is carried on one's person.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'llevar' as 'to carry' and 'puesto' as 'positioned' – you're carrying clothes positioned on your body.
- Imagine 'carrying' your clothes with you wherever you go, but they're 'put' on your body.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in everyday Spanish conversation when discussing clothing and appearance. It's a standard way to describe what someone is wearing and is used across all Spanish-speaking countries.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Llevar puesto' refers to currently wearing something, while 'ponerse' means the action of putting something on.
Confused word:
Me pongo un abrigo negro.
I put on a black coat.
Notes: The distinction is similar to English 'wearing' vs. 'putting on' - one is continuous state, the other is the action of dressing.
Mnemonic: 'Llevar puesto' is about the state (wearing), 'ponerse' is about the action (putting on).
Explanation: 'Llevar' alone means 'to carry/take' while 'llevar puesto' specifically refers to wearing clothing or accessories.
Confused word:
Llevo un regalo para ti.
I'm bringing a gift for you.
Notes: 'Llevar' has many meanings in Spanish, but adding 'puesto' narrows it specifically to wearing items.
Mnemonic: When 'puesto' follows 'llevar', it's always about clothing on your body.