mundano
Lemma Details
Translation: worldly; mundane; secular; earthly; temporal
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'mundanus' (of or belonging to the world), from 'mundus' (world, universe). The English cognate 'mundane' comes from the same Latin root. The word carries the connotation of things that are ordinary, earthly, or related to the physical world as opposed to spiritual or heavenly matters.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Dejó atrás los placeres mundanos para dedicarse a la vida religiosa.
He left behind worldly pleasures to devote himself to religious life.
Se ocupa de asuntos mundanos como pagar las facturas.
He deals with mundane matters such as paying bills.
La filosofía busca respuestas más allá de la experiencia mundana.
Philosophy seeks answers beyond mundane experience.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'mundano' as related to 'mundo' (world) - things that are 'of the world'.
- Remember that 'mundane' in English (boring, ordinary) comes from the same root - worldly things are often considered ordinary compared to spiritual matters.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, particularly those with strong Catholic traditions, the concept of 'mundano' often carries moral implications, contrasting worldly concerns with spiritual values. It's frequently used in religious contexts to describe things that distract from spiritual growth.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both derive from 'mundo' (world), 'mundano' refers to things that are worldly or secular, while 'mundial' means worldwide or global in scope.
Confused word:
La Copa Mundial de fútbol es un evento internacional.
The World Cup of soccer is an international event.
Notes: 'Mundano' often has a slightly negative connotation in religious contexts, while 'mundial' is neutral and refers to geographic scope.
Mnemonic: 'Mundano' ends in '-ano' like 'humano' - both relate to human/earthly qualities; 'mundial' ends in '-ial' like 'global' - both relate to worldwide scope.
Explanation: 'Mundano' and 'mundanal' are very similar in meaning, both referring to worldly matters, but 'mundanal' is less common and slightly more literary or archaic.
Notes: 'Mundanal ruido' is a famous phrase from Spanish literature, appearing in poetry by Fray Luis de León.
Mnemonic: 'Mundanal' is often found in the fixed phrase 'mundanal ruido' (worldly noise/affairs), especially in literary contexts.