Part of Speech
Verb
Phonetic Transcription
/kon.me.moˈɾaɾ/
Translation Options into English
- To commemorate
- To memorialize
Meaning and Usage
The verb "conmemorar" means to honor or remember someone or something, particularly in the context of commemorating significant events or individuals, such as historical figures or anniversaries. It is a formal term and is often used in both written and spoken contexts. Its frequency of use can vary depending on cultural events, anniversaries, and public discourse about history or memory.
In general, the verb is more commonly found in written texts, especially in literature, history, and official communications, but it also appears in oral speech during commemorative events or discussions related to social and historical topics.
Example Sentences
1. Este año vamos a conmemorar el centenario de la revolución.
This year we are going to commemorate the centenary of the revolution.
Muchas ciudades organizan eventos para conmemorar a sus héroes locales.
Many cities organize events to commemorate their local heroes.
La escuela planea conmemorar el Día de Muertos con una serie de actividades.
The school plans to commemorate the Day of the Dead with a series of activities.
Idiom Usage
The term "conmemorar" is often involved in various idiomatic expressions or phrases related to remembrance and honor. Here, we explore some idiomatic contexts:
Se planea conmemorar el logro con gran pompa y ceremonia.
They plan to commemorate the achievement with great pomp and ceremony.
Conmemorar el sacrificio
Es importante conmemorar el sacrificio de aquellos que lucharon por la libertad.
It is important to commemorate the sacrifice of those who fought for freedom.
Conmemorar a los caídos
Cada año, la comunidad se reúne para conmemorar a los caídos en la guerra.
Every year, the community gathers to commemorate those who fell in the war.
Conmemorar un aniversario
Etymology
The word "conmemorar" derives from the Latin "commemorare," which is formed by combining the prefix "com-" (which means 'together' or 'with') and "memorare," meaning 'to remember'. The transition into modern Spanish retained the core meaning that emphasizes collective remembrance.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms
- Recordar (to remember)
- Celebrar (to celebrate)
- Honrar (to honor)
In summary, "conmemorar" is a significant term that encompasses remembrance and honor, prominent in cultural, historical, and personal contexts. Its use reinforces collective memory through various forms of expression and events.