pata
Lemma Details
Translation: leg; paw; foot; hoof
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'patta', which was used to describe an animal's foot or paw. The term evolved in Spanish to refer to the legs of animals and, by extension, to the legs of furniture. Unlike the English 'leg', which derives from Old Norse 'leggr', 'pata' has always maintained its primary association with animals rather than humans.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'pat' on an animal's paw - 'pata'
- Imagine a cat's 'pata' (paw) patting at something
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish culture, 'pata' is commonly used in many idioms and expressions. It's important to note that while 'pierna' refers to human legs, 'pata' is used for animals and objects like furniture. Using 'pata' to refer to a human leg can be considered rude or humorous.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Pata' refers to the legs of animals and furniture, while 'pierna' specifically refers to human legs.
Confused word:
Ella tiene piernas largas.
She has long legs.
Notes: Using 'pata' instead of 'pierna' for humans can be considered derogatory or humorous.
Mnemonic: 'Pierna' sounds like 'person' - it's for people's legs.
Explanation: 'Pata' means leg or paw, while 'pato' means duck.
Confused word:
Hay un pato en el lago.
There is a duck in the lake.
Notes: The feminine form 'pata' can actually mean female duck, creating potential confusion.
Mnemonic: 'Pato' ends in 'o' like most masculine nouns, and ducks are often depicted as male in cartoons.