Adverb
/deˈspaɾθjo/ (in Spain) or /desˈpasjo/ (in Latin America)
The word "despacio" is used in the Spanish language to indicate a slow manner of doing something. It expresses the idea of taking one's time, not rushing, or proceeding at a leisurely pace. It is a commonly used adverb, frequently appearing in both oral and written contexts. It is particularly prevalent in everyday conversations as well as in instructional or descriptive texts.
Drive slowly on the slippery road.
Habló despacio para que todos pudieran entenderlo.
He spoke slowly so that everyone could understand him.
El niño camina despacio porque está cansado.
"Despacio" is often found in idiomatic expressions that convey a sense of caution or patience. Some common idioms include:
Better slow than in a hurry.
Despacio, que tengo un corazón frágil.
Slowly, as I have a fragile heart.
Hacer las cosas despacio trae mejores resultados.
Doing things slowly yields better results.
No hay que correr, la vida es despacio.
There's no need to rush; life is slow.
Despacio se va lejos.
Slowly one goes far.
Hay que ir despacio para no cometer errores.
One must go slowly to avoid making mistakes.
Despacio y con paciencia se puede lograr todo.
The word "despacio" originates from Latin "spatium," meaning "space" or "extent." The prefix "des-" can denote negation or reversal in Spanish, contributing to the idea of doing something without rush or abundance of speed.
This comprehensive exploration provides a good understanding of the word "despacio" in the Spanish language as well as its literary and conversational significance.