Calidad refers to the degree of excellence of something, a characteristic or trait that denotes the worth or value of an object, service, or concept. It encompasses various aspects such as standard, grade, and merit. In Spanish, the word is often used in both oral and written contexts with a moderate to high frequency.
Usage Context
It is commonly encountered in discussions related to consumer goods, medical services, legal standards, and artistic evaluations.
Example Sentences
La calidad de este producto es excepcional.
The quality of this product is exceptional.
La calidad del aire en esta ciudad ha mejorado.
The quality of the air in this city has improved.
Este médico garantiza la calidad de su atención.
This doctor guarantees the quality of their care.
Idiomatic Expressions
The term "calidad" is frequently used in several idiomatic expressions, which emphasize its contextual versatility in the Spanish language.
De calidad
Este restaurante es de calidad, por eso siempre está lleno.
This restaurant is of high quality, which is why it is always full.
Reunir calidad
Para competir en el mercado, necesitamos reunir calidad y buenos precios.
To compete in the market, we need to gather quality and good prices.
Calidad superior
Las piezas que vendemos son de calidad superior.
The parts we sell are of superior quality.
Calidad de vida
La calidad de vida en esta área ha mejorado en los últimos años.
The quality of life in this area has improved in recent years.
Control de calidad
Cada producto pasa por un riguroso control de calidad antes de ser enviado.
Each product undergoes a rigorous quality control before being shipped.
Etymology
The word calidad comes from the Latin word "qualitas", which itself is derived from "qualis", meaning "of what kind". This lineage emphasizes the idea of assessing or judging worth and kind.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
Excelencia (excellence)
Cualidad (quality or attribute)
Virtud (virtue)
Antonyms:
Inferioridad (inferiority)
Mediocridad (mediocrity)
Defectuosidad (defectiveness)
This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the word "calidad," its uses, meanings, and cultural significance in the Spanish language.