montañismo
Lemma Details
Translation: mountaineering; mountain climbing; alpinism
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from 'montaña' (mountain) + the suffix '-ismo' (denoting an activity or practice). 'Montaña' comes from Latin 'montanea', from 'mons' (mountain). The English cognate 'mountain' shares the same Latin root. The suffix '-ismo' corresponds to English '-ism', creating a term that specifically refers to the practice or sport of climbing mountains.
Commonality: 40%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El montañismo requiere buena condición física y conocimientos técnicos.
Mountaineering requires good physical condition and technical knowledge.
Practico montañismo desde hace diez años.
I have been practicing mountaineering for ten years.
El montañismo es un deporte de aventura que conlleva ciertos riesgos.
Mountaineering is an adventure sport that involves certain risks.
Mnemonics
- Think 'mountain-ism' - the practice or sport of mountain climbing
- Remember that 'montaña' means mountain, and '-ismo' indicates an activity or practice
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Mountaineering is a popular activity in Spain, particularly in regions with significant mountain ranges like the Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada, and Picos de Europa. The sport has a strong tradition in Spanish culture, with numerous clubs and associations dedicated to montañismo throughout the country.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'montañismo' refers to mountaineering in general, 'alpinismo' specifically refers to climbing in high mountain ranges, particularly the Alps or similar high-altitude mountains. In practice, they are often used interchangeably in Spanish, though 'alpinismo' can have a more technical connotation.
Notes: In everyday usage, many Spanish speakers don't make a strong distinction between these terms.
Mnemonic: Think of 'montañismo' as related to any mountains, while 'alpinismo' relates specifically to Alpine-style (high mountain) climbing.
Explanation: 'Montañismo' involves climbing mountains, often requiring technical skills and equipment, while 'senderismo' refers to hiking or trekking on established trails, typically less technical and at lower elevations.
Confused word:
El senderismo es una actividad accesible para personas de todas las edades.
Hiking is an accessible activity for people of all ages.
Notes: 'Senderismo' is generally considered less extreme and more accessible to beginners than 'montañismo'.
Mnemonic: 'Montañismo' aims for the mountain top; 'senderismo' follows the path ('sendero').