Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/kon.tɾaˈti.em.po/

Translation Options into English

• Setback
• Mishap
• Hiccup

Meaning and Usage

"Contratiempo" refers to an unexpected event that hinders progress or causes a delay. In a general (and legal) context, it can imply obstacles that make it difficult to achieve a goal or fulfill an obligation. It is commonly used in both written and oral contexts but may appear more frequently in written language, especially in formal reports and legal documentation.

Example Sentences

1. El proyecto se retrasó debido a un contratiempo inesperado.

2. The project was delayed due to an unexpected setback.

3. A pesar del contratiempo en el camino, logramos llegar a tiempo.

4. Despite the hiccup on the road, we managed to arrive on time.

5. La empresa enfrentó un contratiempo financiero que afectó sus operaciones.

6. The company faced a financial setback that impacted its operations.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Contratiempo" is used in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are a few examples:

1. Sufrir un contratiempo
2. A menudo, las personas sufren un contratiempo en su camino hacia el éxito.

3. Often, people suffer a setback on their journey to success.

4. Contratiempo momentáneo

5. El accidente fue un contratiempo momentáneo, pero seguimos adelante con nuestros planes.

6. The accident was a momentary setback, but we continued with our plans.

7. Superar un contratiempo

8. Es importante saber cómo superar un contratiempo en la vida.

9. It's important to know how to overcome a setback in life.

10. Contratiempo inesperado

11. Un contratiempo inesperado puede cambiar todo tu día.

12. An unexpected setback can change your entire day.

13. No dejarse abatir por un contratiempo

14. Ella siempre intenta no dejarse abatir por un contratiempo.
15. She always tries not to be disheartened by a setback.

Etymology

The word "contratiempo" comes from the prefix "contra-" meaning "against" and "tiempo" which means "time". This etymology suggests a situation or event that goes against or disrupts the normal course of time or events.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: obstáculo, inconveniente, percance
• Antonyms: éxito, avance, progreso