pregunta
Lemma Details
Translation: question; query; inquiry
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from the verb 'preguntar' (to ask), which comes from Latin 'percontari' meaning 'to inquire thoroughly'. The Latin term is composed of 'per-' (thoroughly) and 'contari' (to question). The English word 'question' shares a similar conceptual origin but comes from Latin 'quaestionem', related to 'quaerere' (to seek, ask).
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'pre' (before) + 'gunta' (sounds like 'hunt-a') - before you hunt for information, you ask a question.
- Associate with 'pregnant' - a state full of questions about the future.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, asking direct questions can sometimes be seen as less polite than in English-speaking cultures, especially in formal contexts. Questions are often softened with phrases like '¿Me podría decir...?' (Could you tell me...?) rather than direct questions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both mean 'question', 'pregunta' typically refers to a specific inquiry requiring an answer, while 'cuestión' often refers to a matter, issue, or topic under discussion.
Confused word:
La cuestión de la inmigración es complicada.
The issue of immigration is complicated.
Notes: 'Pregunta' is more commonly used in everyday conversation when asking for information, while 'cuestión' appears more in formal or academic contexts.
Mnemonic: 'Pregunta' starts with 'pre' like 'precise' - it's a precise inquiry. 'Cuestión' sounds like 'question' but is more about broader issues.
Explanation: 'Pregunta' is an explicit question being asked, while 'duda' means 'doubt' or 'uncertainty' - something you might ask a question about to resolve.
Notes: Questions ('preguntas') are often asked to resolve doubts ('dudas').
Mnemonic: Think: 'pregunta' is what you ask, 'duda' is why you ask it.