muestra
Lemma Details
Translation: sample; specimen; display; exhibition; sign; indication; proof
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from the verb 'mostrar' (to show), which comes from Latin 'monstrare' meaning 'to point out, show'. The English word 'demonstrate' shares this Latin root. 'Muestra' literally means 'that which is shown' or 'that which demonstrates something'. The connection to sampling and displaying is inherent in its origin as something presented as evidence or representation.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Necesito una muestra de sangre para el análisis.
I need a blood sample for the analysis.
La exposición incluye muestras de arte moderno.
The exhibition includes samples of modern art.
Esta es solo una muestra de lo que podemos hacer.
This is just a sample of what we can do.
Dio muestras de gran valentía durante la crisis.
He showed signs of great courage during the crisis.
En la tienda ofrecen muestras gratis del nuevo perfume.
In the store they offer free samples of the new perfume.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'muestra' as something that 'must-ra' be shown to others.
- Connect it to 'demonstrate' - both involve showing something as evidence or example.
- Visualize a museum (similar sound) where samples and specimens are displayed.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'muestra' is commonly used in retail contexts for product samples, in medical settings for specimens, and in statistics for sampling. The phrase 'muestra gratis' (free sample) is particularly common in marketing and retail environments.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Muestra' is a noun meaning 'sample' or 'display', while 'demuestra' is a verb form (3rd person singular present of 'demostrar') meaning 'demonstrates' or 'proves'.
Confused word:
Él demuestra gran habilidad en matemáticas.
He demonstrates great skill in mathematics.
Notes: The confusion often stems from both words sharing the same Latin root related to showing or displaying.
Mnemonic: 'Muestra' (noun) is what you see; 'demuestra' (verb) is what someone does.
Explanation: 'Muestra' means 'sample' or 'display', while 'mostrador' means 'counter' (as in a shop or reception desk).
Notes: Both words derive from 'mostrar' (to show), but refer to different concepts in the process of displaying items.
Mnemonic: Think of 'mostrador' as where things are 'mostrado' (shown), while 'muestra' is the thing itself that is shown.