singular
Lemma Details
Translation: singular; unique; exceptional; remarkable; unusual
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From Latin 'singularis' meaning 'alone of its kind, unique, remarkable'. It shares the same Latin root as the English word 'singular'. The root 'singulus' means 'one at a time' or 'individual'. This connection helps understand why the word refers to something that stands out as unique or exceptional, as well as its grammatical meaning of 'pertaining to one person or thing'.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Es un caso singular en la historia de la medicina.
It's a unique case in the history of medicine.
Tiene un talento singular para la música.
He has a remarkable talent for music.
En gramática, 'casa' está en singular y 'casas' en plural.
In grammar, 'casa' is in singular and 'casas' in plural.
Su belleza singular llamó la atención de todos.
Her exceptional beauty caught everyone's attention.
Mnemonics
- Sounds like 'single' in English, which helps remember it refers to one thing or something unique.
- Think of a 'singular' talent as something that makes one person stand out from others.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish, like in English, 'singular' has both grammatical uses (referring to nouns, verbs, or pronouns that denote one person or thing) and descriptive uses (referring to something unique or remarkable). It's commonly used in academic and literary contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'singular' means unique or exceptional, 'sencillo' means simple or uncomplicated. They might be confused because both can describe something that stands out, but for different reasons.
Notes: 'Singular' is more formal and often has positive connotations of uniqueness, while 'sencillo' is more everyday and neutral, referring to simplicity.
Mnemonic: 'Singular' starts with 'sing' - think of a unique singing voice that stands out; 'sencillo' sounds softer, like something simple and easy.
Explanation: 'Singular' is an adjective meaning unique or exceptional, while 'señalar' is a verb meaning to point out or indicate. They look somewhat similar but have completely different functions and meanings.
This word:
Es un evento singular en la historia del país.
It's a unique event in the country's history.
Confused word:
El profesor señaló los errores en mi ensayo.
The professor pointed out the errors in my essay.
Notes: The 'ñ' in 'señalar' is a clear visual distinction from 'singular'.
Mnemonic: 'Señalar' contains 'señal' (signal) - you point to give a signal; 'singular' relates to 'single' - one of a kind.