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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/kos.ta/

Translation Options into English

• Coast
• Shore
• Sea side

Meaning and Usage

The word "costa" in Spanish refers to the land along the edge of a sea or ocean. It is commonly used in geographical contexts to denote coastal areas where land meets water. The term can also imply economic activities related to fishing, tourism, and property development along the coastline. The word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, with applications in environmental, economic, and legal discussions regarding coastal management.

Example Sentences

1. La costa de España es famosa por sus playas.

2. The coast of Spain is famous for its beaches.

3. La legislación sobre la protección de la costa es muy estricta.

4. Legislation on the protection of the coast is very strict.

5. Nos encanta pasar nuestras vacaciones en la costa.

6. We love spending our holidays on the coast.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "costa" is not only used in its literal sense but is also part of several idiomatic expressions:

1. A costa de
2. Significado: At the expense of.
3. Ejemplo: Logró su éxito a costa de mucho sacrificio.

4. Translation: He achieved his success at the expense of much sacrifice.

5. Bajo costo

6. Significado: Low cost.
7. Ejemplo: Estamos buscando alternativas de bajo costo para el proyecto.

8. Translation: We are looking for low-cost alternatives for the project.

9. El costo de la vida

10. Significado: Cost of living.
11. Ejemplo: El costo de la vida ha aumentado en los últimos años.

12. Translation: The cost of living has increased in recent years.

13. Costar un ojo de la cara

14. Significado: To cost an arm and a leg.
15. Ejemplo: Ese coche me costó un ojo de la cara.
16. Translation: That car cost me an arm and a leg.

Etymology

The word "costa" comes from Latin "cŏsta," which means "rib," and it evolved to refer to the sides or edges of land bordering an expanse of water. Over time, its meaning expanded specifically to denote coastal areas.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Orilla (edge, bank) - Costado (side)

Antonyms: - Interior (interior, inland) - Centro (center)

In summary, "costa" is a multifaceted term used widely across various domains in the Spanish language, with significant implications in geography, economics, and law. Understanding its different uses and idiomatic expressions enriches comprehension and effective communication.