vida
Lemma Details
Translation: life; lifetime; existence; living
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'vita' meaning 'life'. The Latin root is related to the Proto-Indo-European root *gʷeyh₃- meaning 'to live'. This same root gave us English words like 'vital', 'vitamin', and 'revive'. The connection between 'vida' and 'vital' is particularly clear, both referring to the essence of living.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'vital' in English - both words relate to life and living.
- Vida sounds like 'vee-da', which can remind you of 'V for Vitality'.
- Picture a 'VID' (like a video) of your life - 'vida'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'vida' is often used in expressions that emphasize the importance of family, celebration, and enjoying the moment. The phrase 'pura vida' (pure life) is particularly significant in Costa Rica, where it embodies the country's philosophy of simple, stress-free living and appreciation for life's small pleasures.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Vida' means 'life', while 'vía' means 'way', 'route', or 'via'. They look and sound similar but have completely different meanings.
Notes: The stress in 'vida' falls on the first syllable (VI-da), while in 'vía' it falls on the 'í' (VI-a).
Mnemonic: 'Vida' has a 'd' for 'days of your life'; 'vía' has no 'd' because it's just a path, not life itself.
Explanation: 'Vida' means 'life', while 'vista' means 'view' or 'sight'. They differ by just one letter but have unrelated meanings.
Notes: Both words are common in everyday Spanish, so context is important for distinguishing them.
Mnemonic: 'Vista' contains 'st' like 'see things', reminding you it's about viewing, not living.