lo mismo
Lemma: lo mismo
Translation: the same; the same thing; likewise; ditto (phrase)
Etymology: This phrase combines the neuter definite article 'lo' (derived from Latin 'illud') with the adjective 'mismo' (from Latin 'metipsimus', a reinforced form of 'ipse' meaning 'self'). The combination creates a substantivized expression that refers to sameness or identity between things.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'lo mismo' as 'the same-o' to remember it means 'the same'
- The 'mis' in 'mismo' sounds like 'me' in English - 'the same as me'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is extremely common in everyday Spanish conversation. It's often used as a quick response to indicate agreement or to say that one wants the same thing as someone else, particularly in restaurants or shops.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Lo mismo' means 'the same thing' while 'lo mío' means 'mine' or 'my thing'.
Confused word:
Este es lo mío, no lo tuyo.
This is mine, not yours.
Notes: Both phrases start with the neuter article 'lo' but refer to different concepts of identity versus possession.
Mnemonic: 'Mismo' has an 's' for 'same', while 'mío' has no 's' and refers to 'mine'.
Explanation: 'Lo mismo' means 'the same thing' while 'así mismo' (sometimes written as one word 'asimismo') means 'likewise' or 'in the same way'.
This word:
Quiero lo mismo.
I want the same thing.
Confused word:
Debes hacerlo así mismo como te enseñé.
You should do it in the same way as I taught you.
Notes: While they share similar meanings, 'lo mismo' is more about the thing itself being identical, while 'así mismo' is about the manner being identical.
Mnemonic: 'Así mismo' contains 'así' (like this/that), indicating a manner or way of doing something.