Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/hampa/

Translation Options into English

1. Underworld
2. Criminal class
3. Mafia

Meaning and Usage

The term "hampa" refers to a group of people engaged in illegal activities, often associated with organized crime or the underworld. It is commonly used in discussions surrounding crime, law enforcement, and social issues. "Hampa" conveys a strong connotation of illicit behavior and is frequently employed in a serious or formal context.

In everyday usage, "hampa" may appear more in written contexts, such as news articles, legal documents, and literature, although it can also be used in oral discussions about crime or societal issues.

Example Sentences

1. La hampa controla muchas de las actividades ilegales en la ciudad.

2. The underworld controls many illegal activities in the city.

3. Muchos jóvenes entran en la hampa buscando una salida a su pobreza.

4. Many young people enter the criminal underworld seeking a way out of their poverty.

5. Las autoridades están trabajando para desmantelar la hampa en esta región.

6. Authorities are working to dismantle the criminal class in this region.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "hampa" is not typically a part of many idiomatic expressions, it often appears in phrases related to criminality or social issues. Here are several examples demonstrating its contextual use:

1. "La ley de la hampa rige en estos barrios peligrosos."

2. The law of the underworld governs these dangerous neighborhoods.

3. "No quiero involucrarme con la hampa, siempre trae problemas."

4. I don't want to get involved with the criminal class; it always brings problems.

5. "La lucha contra la hampa es una batalla constante."

6. The fight against the underworld is a constant battle.

7. "A veces, la hampa parece más fuerte que el gobierno."

8. Sometimes, the underworld seems stronger than the government.

9. "La hampa tiene sus propios códigos que operan como una mafia."

10. The underworld has its own codes that operate like a mafia.

Etymology

The word "hampa" comes from the Spanish word "hampe" with origins that relate to the concept of "hampones," referring to criminals or those engaged in illicit activities. Its usage has evolved to denote specifically those involved in organized crime or the underworld.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Criminalidad (criminality) - Delincuencia (delinquency) - Mafia (mafia)

Antonyms: - Legalidad (legality) - Honradez (honesty) - Rectitud (uprightness)