cal (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word cal is a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/kal/

Translation Options into English

1. Lime (the calcium carbonate or oxide)
2. Scale (as in accumulation of deposits)
3. Heat (in the context of viticulture and soil)

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, cal primarily refers to lime, a chemical compound used in various applications, such as construction and agriculture. The term can also relate to scale in specific contexts, and in some instances, it may refer to "heat" in the context of cooking or processing. It is quite common in both oral and written contexts, especially in discussions about construction, chemistry, and agriculture.

Example Sentences

1. La cal se utiliza para la construcción de edificios.
   Lime is used for the construction of buildings.

2. La acumulación de cal en las tuberías puede causar problemas.
   The accumulation of scale in the pipes can cause problems.

3. Los agricultores a veces añaden cal al suelo para mejorar la calidad.
   Farmers sometimes add lime to the soil to improve quality.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "cal" is not commonly found in well-known idioms per se, it is part of some expressions relevant to specific contexts.

1. Poner la cal en su lugar
   Meaning: To put things in order, especially in a project or process.
   Es importante poner la cal en su lugar para que la obra sea exitosa.
   It is important to put the lime in its place so that the work is successful.

2. Sacar la cal del fuego
   Meaning: To take a risk or to face a challenge.
   Decidí sacar la cal del fuego y presentarme al examen a pesar de no estar completamente preparado.
   I decided to take a risk and show up for the exam despite not being fully prepared.

3. Hacer cal y arena
   Meaning: To mix different ingredients, often used when compromising or negotiating.
   En la reunión, ambos lados tuvieron que hacer cal y arena para llegar a un acuerdo.
   In the meeting, both sides had to compromise to reach an agreement.

Etymology

The word cal comes from Latin calx, meaning "lime." Its Latin root has also influenced other Romance languages, signifying a close connection with the concept of lime-related substances.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Cal (in its context of lime): Cal viva (quicklime), Cal apagada (slaked lime)

Antonyms: - There are no direct antonyms for "cal" in its noun form, as it describes a specific chemical compound. However, in the context of soil and chemistry, you might reference "acidez" (acidity) as an indirect counterpart in agricultural discussions.

This structured response provides comprehensive information on the word "cal" and its relevant contexts in Spanish.