triunfar
Lemma Details
Translation: to triumph; to succeed; to win; to be successful; to prevail
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'triumphare', meaning 'to celebrate a triumph', which comes from 'triumphus' (a procession celebrating a military victory). The English cognate 'triumph' shares the same Latin root. In ancient Rome, a 'triumphus' was a civil ceremony and religious rite to publicly celebrate the success of a military commander who had led Roman forces to victory.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El equipo triunfó en el campeonato mundial.
The team triumphed in the world championship.
Ella ha triunfado como actriz en Hollywood.
She has succeeded as an actress in Hollywood.
Para triunfar en los negocios, hay que ser persistente.
To succeed in business, you have to be persistent.
Al final, la verdad siempre triunfa.
In the end, truth always prevails.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'triumph' in English, which sounds similar and has the same meaning.
- Imagine a Roman 'triumph' procession to remember the verb's connection to victory and success.
- The 'tri' in 'triunfar' can remind you of a trophy, which is given to winners.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'triunfar' often carries connotations of overcoming obstacles and achieving recognition, especially in competitive fields like entertainment, sports, or business. The concept of 'triunfar en la vida' (to succeed in life) is a common aspiration that encompasses professional, personal, and social success.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Triunfar' is the verb (to triumph), while 'triunfante' is the adjective (triumphant).
Notes: The adjective 'triunfante' is derived from the verb 'triunfar'.
Mnemonic: 'Triunfar' ends in '-ar' like many Spanish verbs, while 'triunfante' ends in '-ante' like many adjectives.
Explanation: 'Triunfar' is the verb (to triumph), while 'triunfo' is the noun (triumph).
Confused word:
Este triunfo es el resultado de mucho trabajo.
This triumph is the result of a lot of work.
Notes: The noun 'triunfo' can also refer to the trump card in certain card games.
Mnemonic: 'Triunfo' (noun) is what you achieve when you 'triunfar' (verb).