Noun
/ˌtɛr.əˈzɔː koʊnˈkriːt/
Terrazzo concrete is a composite material that combines cement with marble, quartz, granite, or glass chips. It is known for its durability and aesthetic appeal, often used in flooring and wall surfaces. The term "terrazzo" originates from the Italian word for "terrace," and it refers to the technique used to create this layered flooring.
In English, it is a specialized term predominantly used in construction, architecture, and design contexts. It enjoys moderate stature in terms of frequency, appearing more frequently in written form—especially in technical documents, design specifications, and construction contracts—than in everyday oral speech.
The new café features beautiful terrazzo concrete floors that reflect the sunlight.
(El nuevo café cuenta con hermosos pisos de concreto terrazzo que reflejan la luz del sol.)
Architects often choose terrazzo concrete for its unique ability to blend various materials.
(Los arquitectos a menudo eligen el concreto terrazzo por su única capacidad de combinar varios materiales.)
After installing the terrazzo concrete, the interior designer added matching furniture for a cohesive look.
(Después de instalar el concreto terrazzo, el diseñador de interiores añadió muebles a juego para un aspecto cohesivo.)
The use of "terrazzo concrete" in idiomatic expressions is limited due to its specific nature. However, it can be included in phrases related to construction or architectural design. Here are some idiomatic expressions featuring "terrazzo":
"A solid foundation is like terrazzo concrete; it supports everything above it."
(Una base sólida es como el concreto terrazzo; sostiene todo lo que está encima.)
"You can’t build a high-rise without a good substrate, similar to how terrazzo concrete needs a sturdy base."
(No puedes construir un rascacielos sin un buen sustrato, similar a cómo el concreto terrazzo necesita una base sólida.)
"Just like terrazzo concrete, our goals are polished with hard work and dedication."
(Al igual que el concreto terrazzo, nuestras metas están pulidas con trabajo duro y dedicación.)
The term "terrazzo" comes from the Italian word "terrazza," meaning terrace or balcony. The technique dates back to the 15th century in Italy, where it was used as a cost-effective way to enhance flooring surfaces using leftover marble chips. The addition of concrete to this mix became popular in the 20th century, leading to the modern terrazzo concrete we know today.
This response contains detailed information, aimed at giving a comprehensive view of the term "terrazzo concrete" and its contextual use in the English language.