permanecer

Lemma Details

Translation: to remain; to stay; to persist; to endure; to continue

Part of Speech: verb

Etymology: From Latin 'permanere', a combination of 'per' (through, thoroughly) and 'manere' (to stay, remain). The English cognate 'permanent' shares this Latin root. The connection between 'permanecer' and 'permanent' helps illustrate the core meaning of lasting or enduring through time.

Commonality: 80%

Guessability: 70%

Register: neutral

Mnemonics

  • Think of 'permanent' + 'to be' = 'to be permanent' or 'to remain'
  • Per-man-ecer: Picture a man who stays ('per-man-stays') in one place permanently
  • Contains 'mane' which sounds like 'remain' without the 're'

Related Words, Phrases & Idioms

permanencia

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No translation

permanente

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No translation

permanecer firme

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permanecer en silencio

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Synonyms

quedarse

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No translation

continuar

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No translation

persistir

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mantenerse

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No translation

Antonyms

irse

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No translation

marcharse

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cambiar

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Cultural Context

In Spanish culture, 'permanecer' often carries connotations of steadfastness and loyalty, particularly in relationships or commitments. The concept of 'permanencia' (permanence) is valued in many Spanish-speaking societies.

Easily Confused With

pertenecer

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No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: While 'permanecer' means 'to remain' or 'to stay', 'pertenecer' means 'to belong'. They look and sound similar but have different meanings and uses.

Notes: Both are -ecer verbs that follow similar conjugation patterns but express different concepts of location or state.

Mnemonic: 'Permanecer' has 'man' in it, like 'remain'; 'pertenecer' has 'ten' in it, like 'pertain to'.

parecer

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No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: 'Permanecer' means 'to remain', while 'parecer' means 'to seem' or 'to appear'. They share the -ecer ending but have distinct meanings.

Notes: Both verbs are irregular in similar ways, particularly in the present tense first person singular form.

Mnemonic: 'Permanecer' starts with 'per' (through) suggesting duration; 'parecer' starts with 'par' which sounds like 'appear'.