cuando (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation
Part of Speech
Adverb, conjunction, pronoun
Phonetic Transcription
/ˈkwando/ (Spanish pronunciation)
Translation Options into English
when
whenever
as soon as
Meaning and Usage
The word "cuando" is primarily used to ask questions about time or to indicate a specific time when something happens. It can also be used to express conditions. "Cuando" is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, appearing in daily conversations, literature, news, and formal writing. Its frequency varies, but it is generally a common word in the Spanish language.
Example Sentences
Cuando llegues, avísame.
When you arrive, let me know.
No sé cuando es la reunión.
I don’t know when the meeting is.
Cuando era niño, me gustaba jugar al fútbol.
When I was a child, I liked to play soccer.
Idiomatic Expressions
"Cuando" is often featured in various idiomatic expressions in the Spanish language. Some common expressions include:
Cuando las ranas críen pelo.
Translation: When frogs grow hair.
Meaning: This expression is used to talk about something that is highly improbable or will never happen.
Cuando el río suena, agua lleva.
Translation: When the river sounds, it carries water.
Meaning: This phrase suggests that rumors often have some truth to them.
Cuando hay amor, hay alegría.
Translation: When there is love, there is joy.
Meaning: This emphasizes the idea that love brings happiness.
Cuando todo va bien, no hay que preocuparse.
Translation: When everything goes well, there is no need to worry.
Meaning: This expression highlights a sense of comfort in times of peace.
Cuando menos lo esperas, sucede.
Translation: When you least expect it, it happens.
Meaning: This suggests that unexpected events can occur at any time.
Etymology
The word "cuando" comes from the Latin word "quando", which also means "when". The Latin term has been preserved in modern Spanish with little phonetic alteration.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms: "en el momento que" (at the moment that), "cuando quiera" (whenever), "a la vez que" (at the same time that)
Antonyms: Although "cuando" doesn't have a direct antonym, phrases that suggest lack of time or timing might serve as a contrast, such as "nunca" (never) or "siempre" (always) in certain contexts.