Adjective
/laten̪te/
The word "latente" is commonly used in several contexts, including general language, medicine, and everyday conversation. It refers to something that is present but not yet visible, active, or manifest. In medicine, "latente" often describes infections or conditions that are not currently exhibiting symptoms but may become active later on.
Frequency of use is moderate; it may appear more in written contexts, especially in technical or academic writing, but is also used in oral speech in discussions related to health, psychology, and personal experiences.
Example Sentences: 1. "La infección viral puede permanecer latente durante años sin causar síntomas." - "The viral infection can remain latent for years without causing symptoms."
"His talent is latent and could develop over time."
"Las emociones latentes a menudo se manifiestan en situaciones de estrés."
The term "latente" is not widely featured in idiomatic expressions, but it can be incorporated into phrases that emphasize the hidden or dormant nature of a subject. Here are some example sentences:
"His feelings for her remain latent, despite the apparent indifference."
"Existen riesgos latentes en cualquier negocio que se debe considerar."
"There are latent risks in any business that must be considered."
"Hay una creatividad latente en el grupo que está esperando ser liberada."
"There is a latent creativity in the group that is waiting to be unleashed."
"Las tensiones latentes en la comunidad finalmente estallaron en protestas."
The word "latente" comes from the Latin "latens," which is the present participle of "latere," meaning "to lie hidden" or "to be concealed." This etymological origin reflects its current meaning as something that exists but is not yet perceived.
Synonyms: - oculto (hidden) - dormido (dormant) - subyacente (underlying)
Antonyms: - evidente (evident) - manifiesto (manifest) - activo (active)