nombrar
Lemma Details
Translation: to name; to appoint; to nominate; to designate; to mention
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'nominare' meaning 'to name', which comes from 'nomen' (name). This shares the same Latin root as English words like 'nominate', 'nomenclature', and 'nominal'. The 'b' in 'nombrar' developed through phonetic evolution from Latin 'm' to 'mb', a common pattern in Spanish (compare Latin 'homo' → Spanish 'hombre').
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Vamos a nombrar a nuestro hijo Juan.
We're going to name our son Juan.
El presidente nombró a un nuevo ministro.
The president appointed a new minister.
No quiero nombrar a los culpables.
I don't want to name those responsible.
La nombraron directora de la empresa.
They appointed her director of the company.
Prefiero no nombrar ese incidente.
I prefer not to mention that incident.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'nombrar' as 'name-brar' to connect it to the English 'name'.
- Remember 'nom' (name) + 'brar' to help recall its meaning of naming or appointing.
- Connect it to 'nominate' in English, which shares the same Latin root.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, the verb 'nombrar' is commonly used in formal contexts such as business, politics, and legal proceedings when referring to official appointments. It's also used in everyday language when giving names to things or people.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Nombrar' means to name or appoint, while 'numerar' means to number or enumerate.
Confused word:
Necesito numerar las páginas del documento.
I need to number the pages of the document.
Notes: Both verbs involve assigning something (a name or a number) but for different purposes.
Mnemonic: 'Nombrar' has 'nom' like 'name', while 'numerar' has 'num' like 'number'.
Explanation: 'Nombrar' is more general and can mean to name, appoint, or mention, while 'nominar' specifically means to nominate for a position or award.
Notes: 'Nominar' is often used in contexts of awards and competitions, while 'nombrar' is broader.
Mnemonic: 'Nominar' is closer to English 'nominate' and is more specific than 'nombrar'.