opaco
Lemma Details
Translation: opaque; dull; cloudy; dark; obscure; nontransparent
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'opacus' meaning 'shaded, dark, obscure'. The English cognate 'opaque' shares the same Latin root. Both words maintain the core meaning of something that does not allow light to pass through or is not transparent. The Latin 'opacus' originally referred to shady places, particularly those created by dense foliage.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think 'O-pack-O' - something so packed with material that light can't pass through it.
- Similar to English 'opaque' - just drop the 'ue' and you have the Spanish word.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish art criticism, 'opaco' is often used to describe certain painting techniques or the quality of colors that don't reflect light. In everyday usage, it can refer to both physical opacity and metaphorical obscurity or lack of clarity.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'opaco' means 'opaque' or 'not transparent', 'opulento' means 'opulent' or 'luxurious'. They look somewhat similar but have completely different meanings.
Confused word:
Viven en una mansión opulenta con muchos lujos.
They live in an opulent mansion with many luxuries.
Notes: The 'op-' beginning might cause confusion, but the meanings are entirely different.
Mnemonic: 'Opaco' blocks light, while 'opulento' is bright with luxury.
Explanation: 'Opaco' refers to something that doesn't let light through, while 'hueco' means 'hollow' or 'empty'. They sound somewhat similar but have different meanings and spellings.
Confused word:
Encontré un espacio hueco detrás de la pared.
I found a hollow space behind the wall.
Notes: Both can describe physical properties of objects but in opposite ways.
Mnemonic: 'Opaco' is full (of material that blocks light), while 'hueco' is empty (hollow).