nosotras
Lemma Details
Translation: we; us
Part of Speech: pronoun
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'nos' (we, us) with the feminine ending '-otras' (others). This is the feminine form of 'nosotros', used exclusively when referring to a group of all women. Spanish pronouns maintain gender distinction in the first person plural, unlike English 'we' which is gender-neutral.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- 'Nos-otras' can be remembered as 'us-others' but specifically for women.
- Think of 'nos' (us) + 'otras' (female others) = 'we women'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, the explicit gender marking in pronouns reflects the importance of gender in grammar and social interactions. Using 'nosotras' specifically acknowledges and emphasizes the female identity of the group being referred to.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Nosotras' is the feminine form used only for groups of all women, while 'nosotros' is used for all-male groups or mixed groups of men and women.
Confused word:
Nosotros estamos listos para la fiesta.
We (men only or mixed group) are ready for the party.
Notes: In Spanish, even if a group has 99 women and 1 man, 'nosotros' would be used, not 'nosotras'.
Mnemonic: 'Nosotras' ends in 'as' like many feminine plural words in Spanish.
Explanation: 'Nosotras' means 'we/us' (first person plural feminine), while 'vosotras' means 'you all' (second person plural feminine).
Confused word:
Vosotras iréis mañana.
You all (women) will go tomorrow.
Notes: 'Vosotras' is primarily used in Spain, while in Latin America 'ustedes' is more common for the second person plural.
Mnemonic: 'N' in 'nosotras' for 'us' (first person), 'V' in 'vosotras' for 'you' (second person).