uno
Lemma Details
Translation: one; a; an
Part of Speech: numeral
Etymology: Derived from Latin 'unus' (one), which shares the same Indo-European root as English 'one'. This connection is part of a broader pattern where many number words show similarities across Indo-European languages. The Spanish 'uno' underwent sound changes from Latin but maintained its core meaning and function as both a numeral and indefinite article.
Commonality: 100%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of the card game 'Uno' where you need to get down to one card.
- Connect it to 'uni-' prefix in English words like 'unicycle' (one wheel) or 'uniform' (one form).
- The masculine form 'un' sounds like the beginning of English 'one'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
Beyond its numerical meaning, 'uno' functions as an indefinite article (un/una) similar to English 'a/an'. It's also used in many idiomatic expressions and games (like the card game 'Uno'). In Spanish culture, there's a saying 'ser el número uno' (to be number one) which emphasizes excellence or being the best.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Uno' changes to 'un' before masculine nouns and 'una' before feminine nouns when used as an indefinite article. 'Uno' is used as a standalone numeral.
This word:
Solo tengo uno.
I only have one.
Confused word:
Necesito una mesa.
I need a table.
Notes: The form changes based on grammatical context: 'uno' (standalone), 'un' (before masculine nouns), 'una' (before feminine nouns).
Mnemonic: 'Uno' stands alone, 'un/una' stand with nouns.
Explanation: 'Uno' is singular while 'unos/unas' are plural forms meaning 'some' or 'a few'.
This word:
Dame uno, por favor.
Give me one, please.
Confused word:
Tengo unos libros.
I have some books.
Notes: The plural forms 'unos/unas' function differently from the singular, expressing an indefinite quantity rather than a single item.
Mnemonic: Add 's' to make it plural, changing the meaning from 'one' to 'some'.