turno
Lemma Details
Translation: turn; shift; rotation; round; stint
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'turnus' meaning 'turn, rotation'. Related to the English word 'turn' through their common Latin origin. The concept of rotation or taking turns in sequence is central to both the Spanish and English cognates.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'turn' in English - they sound similar and mean the same thing.
- Imagine a turnstile that rotates as people take their 'turno' to pass through.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking workplaces, 'turno' is commonly used to refer to work shifts. In conversation, it's used to indicate whose turn it is to speak or act. The concept of taking turns is important in Spanish social interactions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Turno' means 'turn' or 'shift', while 'torno' means 'lathe' (a machine tool) or 'around'.
Confused word:
El carpintero usa el torno para hacer patas de mesa.
The carpenter uses the lathe to make table legs.
Notes: These words are often confused because they differ by just one vowel and both relate to rotation in some way.
Mnemonic: 'Turno' has a 'u' like in 'turn', while 'torno' has an 'o' like in 'rotation' (what a lathe does).
Explanation: 'Turno' refers to taking turns or a work shift, while 'en torno a' is a phrase meaning 'around' or 'concerning'.
Notes: The phrase 'en torno a' is commonly used in more formal or academic contexts.
Mnemonic: Think of 'turno' with 'u' for 'you' (your turn), and 'torno' with 'o' for 'orbit' (going around something).