puerta grande
Lemma Details
Translation: main gate; grand exit; triumph; success
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: Compound phrase from 'puerta' (door, gate) and 'grande' (big, large, great). In bullfighting context, it refers to the main gate of the bullring through which successful matadors exit in triumph. The phrase has evolved to metaphorically represent success or achievement in any field.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El torero salió por la puerta grande después de una faena magistral.
The bullfighter exited through the main gate after a masterful performance.
Después de años de trabajo duro, finalmente salió por la puerta grande en su profesión.
After years of hard work, he finally achieved great success in his profession.
La cantante se despidió por la puerta grande con un concierto inolvidable.
The singer said goodbye with a triumph through an unforgettable concert.
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'grand door' (puerta grande) as the doorway to success
- Imagine a triumphant exit through an impressively large door
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase originates from Spanish bullfighting tradition. When a matador performs exceptionally well, they are granted the honor of leaving through the 'puerta grande' (main gate) of the bullring, carried on the shoulders of admirers. The term has transcended bullfighting to become a metaphor for achieving significant success or recognition in any field.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Puerta grande' in bullfighting context refers specifically to the main gate through which successful matadors exit, while 'puerta principal' simply means 'main door' or 'main entrance' without the connotation of triumph or success.
Notes: The metaphorical meaning of 'puerta grande' is deeply rooted in Spanish culture and may not be immediately understood by non-native speakers without cultural context.
Mnemonic: 'Grande' implies greatness/triumph, while 'principal' just indicates location/importance.