maña
Lemma Details
Translation: skill; knack; trick; cunning; craftiness; dexterity
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from the Latin 'manualis' meaning 'of or belonging to the hand', which comes from 'manus' (hand). The word evolved to describe the skill or dexterity one has with their hands, and later expanded to include mental craftiness or cunning. The connection to manual dexterity helps explain why 'maña' refers to both physical skill and clever resourcefulness.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'manual' skills requiring dexterity with your hands.
- Connect it with 'mañana' (tomorrow) - someone with 'maña' can always find a way to get things done tomorrow.
- Imagine a crafty person manipulating things with their hands.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish culture, having 'maña' is often viewed positively when it refers to skill or resourcefulness, but can have negative connotations when it implies trickery or manipulation. The phrase 'darse maña' (to find a way) is commonly used to praise someone's resourcefulness in solving problems.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Maña' means skill or cunning, while 'mañana' means tomorrow or morning.
Notes: The tilde (ñ) appears in both words but they have completely different meanings and uses.
Mnemonic: 'Maña' is shorter and refers to a skill you already have; 'mañana' is longer and refers to the future.
Explanation: 'Maña' refers to skill or cunning, while 'manía' means obsession, mania, or habit.
Notes: Both can refer to habits, but 'manía' is more about compulsive behaviors while 'maña' is about clever tactics.
Mnemonic: 'Maña' relates to skill (think manual dexterity); 'manía' relates to mental fixation (think mania).