Noun
/karnarβal/
In Spanish, carnaval refers to a festive season occurring before Lent, characterized by public celebrations, parades, and masquerades. It involves vibrant costumes, music, and dancing. The word is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, especially around the time of the festivities, which typically take place in various regions of the Spanish-speaking world.
The frequency of use peaks around the carnival season, particularly in countries like Brazil, Venezuela, and many Caribbean islands, where carnivals are celebrated with significant public festivities.
Este año, el carnaval en mi ciudad será muy emocionante.
This year, the carnival in my city will be very exciting.
Las personas se disfrazan y bailan durante el carnaval.
People dress up and dance during the carnival.
El carnaval de Venecia es famoso por sus máscaras.
The Venice carnival is famous for its masks.
"Carnaval" frequently appears in various cultural and idiomatic contexts. Here are a few idiomatic expressions that incorporate "carnaval":
El carnaval de la vida
The carnival of life — This expression suggests that life is full of colorful experiences and celebrations, similar to a carnival atmosphere.
La vida es un carnaval, llena de sorpresas cada día.
Life is a carnival, full of surprises every day.
Hacer carnaval
To make a carnival — This phrase is used to indicate making a big celebration or event out of something.
Vamos a hacer carnaval por el cumpleaños de Adriana.
We are going to make a carnival for Adriana's birthday.
Durante el carnaval, todo está permitido
During the carnival, everything is allowed — This phrase suggests that during festive occasions, rules and norms may be relaxed.
Durante el carnaval, todo está permitido y la alegría reina.
During the carnival, everything is allowed, and joy reigns.
The word "carnaval" originates from the italiano "carnevale," which in turn is derived from the latín "carnem levare," meaning "to remove meat." This reflects the traditional practice of abstaining from meat during Lent, leading up to the jubilation of the carnival festivities before the fasting period.
Synonyms:
- Fiesta (party)
- Celebración (celebration)
- Festival (festival)
Antonyms:
- Lent (Cuaresma) — as it represents a period of abstinence and reflection, contrasting with the festivities of Carnaval.
- Serenidad (serenity) — as it suggests calmness and quietness, which contrasts with the excitement of carnival celebrations.