res

Lemma Details

Translation: cattle; cow; beef cattle; livestock

Part of Speech: noun

Etymology: From Latin 'res' meaning 'thing, matter, affair, property'. In Spanish, the meaning narrowed to specifically refer to cattle. This semantic specialization is interesting as it shows how a general term for property or possessions evolved to refer specifically to cattle, which were historically a primary form of wealth and property.

Commonality: 60%

Guessability: 20%

Register: neutral

Mnemonics

  • Think of 'res' as the 'resource' that traditionally represented wealth (cattle).
  • Associate with 'restaurant' where beef (from 'res') is often served.

Related Words, Phrases & Idioms

res vacuna

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No translation

res brava

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No translation

carne de res

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No translation

cabeza de res

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No translation

rebaño

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No translation

Synonyms

ganado

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No translation

vaca

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No translation

bovino

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No translation

Cultural Context

In Spanish-speaking countries, especially those with strong agricultural traditions like Mexico, Argentina, and Spain, 'res' is commonly used in contexts related to cattle farming, meat production, and traditional cuisine. The term is particularly important in regions where cattle ranching is a significant economic activity.

Easily Confused With

vez

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No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: 'Res' means 'cattle' while 'vez' means 'time' or 'occasion'. They sound somewhat similar but have completely different meanings and uses.

Notes: The plural forms are also different: 'reses' for cattle and 'veces' for times/occasions.

Mnemonic: 'Res' has an 'e' like in 'beef', while 'vez' has a 'z' like in 'zero times'.

tres

Unknown

No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: 'Res' refers to cattle while 'tres' is the number three. They rhyme but have unrelated meanings.

Notes: Both are short, common words but used in completely different contexts.

Mnemonic: 'Tres' starts with 't' like 'three'; 'res' starts with 'r' like 'ranch' where cattle live.