unidad
Lemma Details
Translation: unit; unity; oneness; uniformity
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'unitas' (unity, oneness), derived from 'unus' (one). The English word 'unity' shares the same Latin root. The concept of 'unidad' emphasizes both a single entity and the state of being united or joined together as one, which is preserved in both Spanish and English cognates.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
La unidad de la familia es importante.
Family unity is important.
Necesitamos tres unidades de sangre para la transfusión.
We need three units of blood for the transfusion.
Esta unidad del libro trata sobre la historia de España.
This unit of the book is about the history of Spain.
La unidad de cuidados intensivos está en el tercer piso.
The intensive care unit is on the third floor.
Necesitamos comprar tres unidades más.
We need to buy three more units.
La unidad es esencial para el éxito del proyecto.
Unity is essential for the success of the project.
Mnemonics
- Think 'unity' with a Spanish twist - just add 'dad' at the end.
- Remember 'uni-' means 'one' (like university, uniform) and '-dad' is a common Spanish noun ending (like 'verdad', 'ciudad').
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'unidad' is often emphasized in political and social contexts, particularly in national mottos and political discourse about solidarity. The concept of 'unidad' is important in Latin American history, where it represents aspirations for regional integration and cooperation.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'unidad' refers to a unit or unity, 'unicidad' specifically means uniqueness or the quality of being unique.
Confused word:
La unicidad de cada persona es lo que nos hace especiales.
The uniqueness of each person is what makes us special.
Notes: Both words derive from Latin 'unus' (one) but have developed distinct meanings in modern Spanish.
Mnemonic: 'Unicidad' contains 'único' (unique), while 'unidad' relates to 'uno' (one).
Explanation: 'Unidad' refers to a single entity or the state of being united, while 'unión' refers to the act or process of joining together.
This word:
Esta unidad de almacenamiento tiene gran capacidad.
This storage unit has great capacity.
Confused word:
La unión de estos dos departamentos creará una nueva división.
The union of these two departments will create a new division.
Notes: In some contexts, these words can be used almost interchangeably when referring to unity in an abstract sense.
Mnemonic: Think of 'unión' as the action (like 'union' in English) and 'unidad' as the resulting state or object.