Part of Speech

The word "letra" is a noun (feminine, singular).

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription of "letra" in International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /ˈle.tɾa/.

Translation Options into English

The word "letra" can be translated into English as: - letter (as in the alphabet) - lyric (as in song lyrics) - handwriting (as in written text)

Meaning and Usage

In the Spanish language, "letra" primarily refers to a character in the alphabet. It is also commonly used to describe the lyrics of a song as well as written text in general. The frequency of use is high, and the term is relevant in both oral speech and written contexts; however, its use may be more frequent in literary, educational, and artistic discussions.

Example Sentences

1. La letra de la canción es muy conmovedora.

2. Translation: The lyrics of the song are very moving.

3. La letra "A" es la primera del alfabeto.

4. Translation: The letter "A" is the first in the alphabet.

5. No puedo leer tu letra, es muy difícil de entender.

6. Translation: I can't read your handwriting; it's very difficult to understand.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Letra" frequently appears in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish, expressing a variety of meanings related to language, music, and writing.

1. En letra de molde - This expression refers to writing in printed letters, as opposed to cursive; meaning clarity and neatness.
2. Example: Escribí la dirección en letra de molde para que fuera más fácil de leer.

3. Translation: I wrote the address in printed letters so it would be easier to read.

4. No hay letra pequeña - This expression means that there shouldn't be hidden terms or conditions; often referring to transparency in contracts or agreements.

5. Example: Asegúrate de que no hay letra pequeña en el contrato.

6. Translation: Make sure there isn't any small print in the contract.

7. Cantar la letra - This expression means to sing the lyrics or often used to indicate that someone is informing on someone else.

8. Example: El testigo decidió cantar la letra en el juicio.

9. Translation: The witness decided to spill the beans in court.

10. Jugar con la letra - This phrase can imply playing with the rules or taking liberties with language or formalities.

11. Example: No puedes jugar con la letra de la ley; debes seguirla.
12. Translation: You cannot play with the letter of the law; you must follow it.

Etymology

The word "letra" derives from the Latin word "littera," which originally meant a letter of the alphabet. This Latin term itself comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *lewdh-, meaning "to grow, to develop," which is associated with the concept of cultivation, including literacy.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - carácter (character) - signo (sign)

Antonyms: - silencio (silence) - when contrasting written text to the absence of text - ocultación (concealment) - in the context of something that should be written but is not disclosed.