minúsculo
Lemma Details
Translation: tiny; minuscule; lowercase; minute; microscopic
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From Latin 'minusculus', a diminutive of 'minus' meaning 'less'. The word originally referred to lowercase letters in writing (as opposed to 'mayúsculo' for uppercase). The English cognate 'minuscule' shares this origin, though in English it primarily means 'extremely small'. The connection to writing systems remains in Spanish, where 'letra minúscula' specifically means lowercase letter.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'minus' (less) + '-culo' (diminutive suffix) = something very small or less significant
- Remember that 'minúsculo' contains the word 'minus' - something that is reduced or smaller
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish typography and writing instruction, the distinction between 'minúsculo' (lowercase) and 'mayúsculo' (uppercase) is emphasized in education. The term is also commonly used metaphorically to describe something insignificant or very small in importance.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'minúsculo' refers to lowercase or something tiny, 'mayúsculo' refers to uppercase or something very large.
Notes: These terms are direct opposites in typography and can also be used metaphorically to describe size or importance.
Mnemonic: Think: 'min' in minúsculo for minimum size, 'may' in mayúsculo for maximum size.
Explanation: 'Minúsculo' means tiny or lowercase, while 'músculo' means muscle.
Notes: These words look similar but have completely different meanings and uses.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'minúsculo' starts with 'min-' (think minimal), while 'músculo' relates to physical strength.