maleza (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Noun

Phonetic Transcription

• /maˈleθa/ (Castilian Spanish) or /maˈlesa/ (Latin American Spanish)

Translation Options into English

• Weeds
• Undergrowth
• Brambles

Meaning and Usage

The term "maleza" refers primarily to plants that grow in unwanted areas, commonly known as weeds. It typically denotes vegetation that is considered undesirable in a cultivated area or garden. In broader contexts, "maleza" can also refer to dense undergrowth found in forests or wild areas. The word frequency is moderate and is used both in oral and written contexts; however, it tends to appear more frequently in agricultural or botanical discussions.

Example Sentences

1. Las malezas crecen rápido si no se les controla.

2. Weeds grow quickly if not managed.

3. El campo está lleno de maleza que hay que limpiar.

4. The field is full of undergrowth that needs to be cleared.

5. Ella se quejó de las malezas en su jardín.

6. She complained about the weeds in her garden.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "maleza" is not directly involved in many idiomatic expressions, it does lend itself to certain phrases that emphasize the challenges of managing unwanted elements in life or nature. Below are some examples:

1. Estar en la maleza.
2. To be in the weeds. (Meaning to be overwhelmed or dealing with minor details; often used in a work context.)
3. Él se siente en la maleza con tantos proyectos a la vez.

4. He feels overwhelmed with so many projects at once.

5. Sacar la maleza.

6. To uproot the weeds. (Figuratively, to eliminate bad habits or bad influences.)
7. Necesito sacar la maleza de mi vida y enfocarme en lo positivo.
8. I need to uproot the bad influences from my life and focus on the positive.

Etymology

The word "maleza" is derived from the Latin term "malaicia," which referred to bad or undesirable plants. Its evolution reflects a longstanding association with plants that are considered pesky or troublesome in cultivated lands.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Yerba mala (bad herb) - Verdura indeseada (undesired greenery) - Maleza silvestre (wild brush)

Antonyms: - Cultivo (crop) - Planta deseada (desired plant) - Jardín (garden)