sentido
Lemma Details
Translation: sense; meaning; direction; feeling; sensation
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'sensus' (perception, feeling, meaning), derived from the verb 'sentire' (to feel, perceive). It shares the same Latin root as English words like 'sense', 'sensitive', and 'sentiment'. The evolution from Latin to Spanish maintained both the physical meaning of perception through the senses and the more abstract notion of meaning or significance.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
No tiene sentido preocuparse por eso ahora.
It doesn't make sense to worry about that now.
El sentido del olfato es muy importante para los perros.
The sense of smell is very important for dogs.
Vamos en sentido contrario.
We're going in the opposite direction.
Sus palabras tienen doble sentido.
His words have a double meaning.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'sentido' as what you've 'sent' to your brain through your senses.
- Related to 'sentiment' in English - both involve feelings and perceptions.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish culture, 'sentido' is frequently used in expressions related to perception and understanding. The concept of 'sentido común' (common sense) is particularly valued in Spanish-speaking societies as a practical approach to life's challenges.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'sentido' can refer to a feeling or sensation, 'sentimiento' specifically refers to an emotion or feeling. 'Sentido' has broader applications including direction, meaning, and the five senses.
Notes: 'Sentido' can be both a noun and an adjective (meaning 'felt' or 'heartfelt'), while 'sentimiento' is only a noun.
Mnemonic: 'Sentido' is shorter and broader (like 'sense'), while 'sentimiento' is longer and more specific (like 'sentiment').
Explanation: 'Sentido' as a noun means 'sense' or 'meaning', while 'sensato' is an adjective meaning 'sensible' or 'reasonable'.
Confused word:
Es una persona muy sensata.
She is a very sensible person.
Notes: Both words derive from the same Latin root 'sensus', but have evolved to serve different grammatical functions.
Mnemonic: Think of 'sensato' as describing someone who uses their 'sentido' (sense) well.