piso mínimo
Lemma Details
Translation: minimum wage; minimum floor; minimum level; price floor
Part of Speech: noun phrase
Etymology: Combines 'piso' (floor, level) from Latin 'pensum' (something weighted or hung) and 'mínimo' from Latin 'minimus' (smallest, least). The term conceptually refers to the lowest permissible level, particularly in economic contexts. While English uses 'minimum wage', Spanish uses the metaphor of a 'floor' (piso) to indicate the lowest acceptable level.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 70%
Register: formal
Example Usage
El gobierno estableció un piso mínimo para los salarios de los trabajadores.
The government established a minimum wage for workers.
Los sindicatos exigen un piso mínimo más alto para proteger a los trabajadores.
The unions demand a higher minimum floor to protect workers.
La nueva ley garantiza un piso mínimo de derechos laborales.
The new law guarantees a minimum floor of labor rights.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'piso' as the floor of a building - it's the lowest level you can stand on, just as a minimum wage is the lowest pay legally allowed.
- Imagine a 'minimum floor' as the foundation that prevents people from falling into economic hardship.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in economic, labor, and policy discussions in Spanish-speaking countries. The concept is particularly important in discussions about labor rights, economic inequality, and social welfare systems. In many Latin American countries, the 'piso mínimo' is a significant political issue due to high levels of informal employment and economic inequality.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'piso mínimo' is a broader concept that can refer to any minimum threshold (wages, prices, standards), 'salario mínimo' specifically refers to the minimum wage. 'Piso mínimo' is the conceptual framework, while 'salario mínimo' is a specific application.
Notes: In economic policy discussions, 'piso mínimo' might refer to various minimum thresholds beyond just wages, such as minimum prices for commodities, minimum social benefits, or minimum regulatory standards.
Mnemonic: 'Piso' (floor) is broader than just salary - it's any bottom level, while 'salario' specifically means 'salary'.