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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/konˈvento/

Translation Options into English

• Convent
• Monastery

Meaning and Usage

The term "convento" refers to a building or complex where a community of monks or nuns lives and practices their religious life. In Ecuador and in many Spanish-speaking countries, “convento” is primarily used in a religious context, sometimes having historical significance due to the colonial influence of the Catholic Church. The frequency of use varies; it is more common in written contexts, particularly in historical, religious, or cultural discussions, but it can also be used in oral communication, especially among individuals discussing religious matters or historical architecture.

Example Sentences

1. El convento en el que se alojaban los monjes fue construido en el siglo XVIII.

2. The convent where the monks stayed was built in the 18th century.

3. Muchos turistas visitan el convento por su belleza arquitectónica y su historia.

4. Many tourists visit the convent for its architectural beauty and history.

5. La comunidad del convento se dedica a ayudar a los más necesitados.

6. The community of the convent is dedicated to helping those in need.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Convento" is often found in idiomatic expressions related to religious life, historical contexts, or metaphorical uses reflecting isolation or community. Here are a few expressions that incorporate the word:

1. Al convento se va a orar.
2. To the convent, one goes to pray.

3. This expression emphasizes the purpose of visiting a convent for spiritual reasons.

4. No es un convento, sino un hogar.

5. It’s not a convent, but a home.

6. This metaphor signifies that a place should be welcoming, contrasting with the austere nature of a convent.

7. Cada quien en su convento.

8. Everyone in their own convent.
9. This expression suggests that everyone should mind their own business or keep to their own matters.

More Example Sentences

1. La vida en el convento es muy diferente a la de la ciudad.

2. Life in the convent is very different from that in the city.

3. Aunque parece un convento, también es un lugar de reflexión para todos.

4. Although it looks like a convent, it is also a place for reflection for everyone.

5. En el convento se celebran muchos eventos culturales.

6. Many cultural events are held in the convent.

Etymology

The word "convento" comes from the Latin "conventus," which means "assembly" or "meeting." This refers to the gathering of individuals in a monastic setting, emphasizing the community aspect of religious life.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Monasterio (monastery) - Religión (religion) in broader contexts - Casa de oración (house of prayer)

Antonyms: - Mundo (world), contrasting the isolated religious life with secular life - Desorden (disorder), highlighting the structured life within a convent.

This comprehensive overview of the word "convento" provides insights into its significance in the Spanish language, especially within general, archaic, and Ecuadorian contexts.