tarde

Lemma Details

Translation: afternoon; evening; late time of day

Part of Speech: noun

Etymology: From Latin 'tarde', the ablative form of 'tardus' meaning 'slow' or 'late'. The connection between 'tarde' (afternoon) and lateness comes from the fact that it's the later part of the day. The adverbial form 'tarde' meaning 'late' shares this etymology. English words like 'tardy' and 'retard' (delay) come from the same Latin root.

Commonality: 95%

Guessability: 60%

Register: neutral

Mnemonics

  • Think of being 'tardy' (late) for school - 'tarde' is the later part of the day.
  • Remember that a 'retarded' clock is running late, and 'tarde' is the late part of the day.

Related Words, Phrases & Idioms

tarde o temprano

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No translation

buenas tardes

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por la tarde

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caer la tarde

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tardar

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No translation

Synonyms

atardecer

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ocaso

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Antonyms

mañana

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madrugada

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Cultural Context

In Spanish-speaking countries, 'tarde' typically refers to the period from after lunch (around 2 PM) until sunset or dinner time. The greeting 'buenas tardes' is used during this time. In many Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Spain, the afternoon may include a siesta period.

Easily Confused With

tarde

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Commonality: 0%

Explanation: As a noun, 'tarde' means 'afternoon', but as an adverb, it means 'late'.

Notes: The adverbial form shares the same etymology, both relating to lateness or the later part of something.

Mnemonic: Remember: 'la tarde' (with article) = time of day; 'tarde' (without article before a verb) = late

noche

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No translation

Commonality: 0%

Explanation: 'Tarde' is afternoon/evening while 'noche' is night. The transition point varies by region and context.

Notes: In some contexts, especially in Latin America, 'tarde' can extend into what English speakers might consider early evening.

Mnemonic: Think of 'tarde' as the time when the sun is still visible but lower in the sky, while 'noche' is when it's dark.