real
Lemma Details
Translation: real; royal; genuine; actual; true
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From Latin 'regalis' meaning 'royal, regal', derived from 'rex' (king). The English word 'royal' shares this Latin origin. The meaning evolved from 'belonging to the king' to 'authentic, genuine' because royal items were considered of highest quality and authenticity. The Spanish 'real' retained both meanings: the royal connection and the sense of something being genuine or true.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of the English word 'real' which has the same spelling and similar meaning.
- For the 'royal' meaning, remember that 'real' sounds like 'regal'.
- The phrase 'real deal' can help remember both meanings: authentic and royal quality.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish history, 'real' has strong connections to monarchy, as seen in place names and institutions with royal origins. The term 'Real' in sports club names (like Real Madrid) indicates royal patronage. Also, 'real' was the name of various historical Spanish currency units.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Real' is an adjective meaning 'real/royal', while 'realidad' is a noun meaning 'reality'.
Notes: Both words share the same root but function differently in sentences.
Mnemonic: 'Realidad' ends with '-dad' like many Spanish nouns (similar to English '-ty' in 'reality').
Explanation: 'Real' is an adjective, while 'realmente' is an adverb meaning 'really'.
This word:
Es un diamante real.
It's a real diamond.
Notes: 'Realmente' modifies verbs, while 'real' modifies nouns.
Mnemonic: 'Realmente' ends with '-mente' like many Spanish adverbs (similar to English '-ly').