moneda corriente
Lemma Details
Translation: currency; legal tender; common currency
Part of Speech: noun phrase
Etymology: The phrase combines 'moneda' (coin, from Latin 'moneta', named after the temple of Juno Moneta where coins were minted in ancient Rome) and 'corriente' (current, flowing, common, from Latin 'currens', present participle of 'currere' meaning 'to run'). Together they refer to money that is in current circulation or commonly accepted as a medium of exchange.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'moneda' as 'money' and 'corriente' as 'current' – the money that is currently flowing in the economy.
- Imagine a 'current' of coins flowing like a river through the economy.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'moneda corriente' refers not only to the physical currency but can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is common or widespread in society, similar to the English expression 'common currency'.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Moneda corriente' refers to the legal currency in circulation in a country, while 'moneda extranjera' refers specifically to foreign currency.
Confused word:
El banco ofrece buenos tipos de cambio para moneda extranjera.
The bank offers good exchange rates for foreign currency.
Notes: In financial contexts, these terms have specific meanings and are not interchangeable.
Mnemonic: 'Corriente' flows within the country; 'extranjera' comes from outside (extra = outside).
Explanation: While very similar in meaning, 'moneda corriente' emphasizes the currency in common use, whereas 'moneda de curso legal' specifically refers to currency that has been legally established as valid for payments.
This word:
El dólar es la moneda corriente en Estados Unidos.
The dollar is the currency in the United States.
Confused word:
Estos billetes son moneda de curso legal y deben ser aceptados.
These bills are legal tender and must be accepted.
Notes: In everyday speech, these terms are often used interchangeably, but 'moneda de curso legal' has a more specific legal connotation.
Mnemonic: Think of 'corriente' as what commonly flows, and 'curso legal' as what legally must be accepted.