Part of Speech

The word "basura" is a noun (feminine).

Phonetic Transcription

/basuɾa/

Translation Options into English

• Trash
• Garbage
• Waste

Meaning and Usage

"Basura" refers to refuse or waste materials that are discarded. It is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, with a slight preference for written contexts such as hygiene standards, environmental discussions, and urban planning. The term can encompass a wide variety of refuse, including organic waste, packaging, and other unwanted items. The frequency of use is quite high, especially in discussions related to cleanliness, waste management, and environmental issues.

Example Sentences

1. La basura en las calles contamina el medio ambiente.

2. The trash on the streets contaminates the environment.

3. Es importante reciclar la basura para reducir residuos.

4. It is important to recycle garbage to reduce waste.

5. Mi trabajo consiste en recoger la basura de los parques.

6. My job involves collecting trash from the parks.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "basura" is frequently used in various idiomatic expressions in the Spanish language, often referring to negative situations or things of little value.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. Me siento como si estuviera hablando con basura.

2. I feel like I am talking to garbage. (Meaning: I feel like I’m not being understood or respected.)

3. Esa película fue una verdadera basura.

4. That movie was real garbage. (Meaning: That movie was really bad.)

5. No quiero escuchar más basura.

6. I don't want to hear more trash. (Meaning: I don't want to hear more nonsense.)

7. No le des más basura a la gente.

8. Don't give people more garbage. (Meaning: Don’t spread more lies or nonsense.)

9. La discusión se convirtió en un intercambio de basura.

10. The discussion turned into an exchange of trash. (Meaning: The discussion degenerated into insults or meaningless arguments.)

Etymology

The word "basura" originates from the Latin word "basura," which means "refuse" or "debris." Its root is connected to the act of throwing away unwanted items, evolving through the language into its modern usage in Spanish.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Desecho (waste) - Desperdicio (waste, discard) - Restos (remnants)

Antonyms: - Tesoro (treasure) - Valor (value) - Utilidad (utility)

In summary, "basura" is a versatile term in Spanish that encompasses various aspects of waste and cleanliness, often featured in colloquial expressions that underline its importance in both literal and figurative contexts.