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

Part of Speech

"Sapo" is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈsapo/

Translation Options into English

• Toad
• Frog (in some contexts)

Meaning and Usage

In the Spanish language, "sapo" primarily refers to the common toad, a type of amphibian. In colloquial usage, especially in some Latin American countries, it can also mean "snitch" or "informant." The word is heavily used in oral communication, particularly in countries like Chile and Cuba, where slang and colloquial expressions can evolve rapidly.

Frequency of Use: "Sapo" is a common word and is frequently used in both casual conversation and specific vernacular contexts. However, due to its dual meanings, it is often context-dependent.

Example Sentences

1. El sapo croaba toda la noche en el estanque.

2. The toad croaked all night in the pond.

3. No puedo confiar en él, es un sapo.

4. I can't trust him; he's a snitch.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "sapo" appears in several idiomatic expressions, particularly in colloquial and vernacular contexts.

1. Ser un sapo
2. To be a snitch.
3. Siempre fui un sapo en la escuela, contándole a los profesores sobre los demás.

4. I was always a snitch in school, telling the teachers about others.

5. Aguantar a un sapo

6. To tolerate a snitch.
7. No quiero aguantar a un sapo en mi grupo de amigos.

8. I don't want to tolerate a snitch in my group of friends.

9. Salir como sapo de otro pozo

10. To be out of place (literally, to come out like a toad from another pond).
11. *Se sintió como sapo de otro pozo en la fiesta. *
12. He felt out of place at the party.

Etymology

The word "sapo" originates from the Latin word "sapo," which also referred to a toad or amphibian. The connection between its original meaning and current usage has remained consistent throughout its evolution in the Spanish language.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - "Anfibio" (amphibian, more general) - "Batráquio" (another term for frog/toad)

Antonyms: - "Serpiente" (snake, as another type of reptile that does not belong to the amphibian category) - "Mamífero" (mammal)

In summary, "sapo" is a versatile word in the Spanish language, used depending on the context both to denote a specific kind of amphibian and as a colloquial term for a snitch or informant. Its rich usage in idiomatic expressions showcases its importance in everyday language.