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

Part of Speech

• Adverb

Phonetic Transcription

• /siˈkje.ɾa/

Translation Options into English

• At least
• Even if
• If only

Meaning and Usage

The word "siquiera" is primarily used in Spanish to express a sense of minimal condition or a concession. It indicates a degree of sufficiency, often highlighting a lower threshold of expectation. It is a common word in both spoken and written contexts, with usage frequency sometimes higher in conversational settings due to its emphatic nature.

Example Sentences

1. "No tengo dinero, pero quisiera tener siquiera un euro."

2. "I don't have any money, but I would at least like to have one euro."

3. "Siquiera tú podrías ayudarme en esta situación."

4. "At least you could help me in this situation."

5. "No hay tiempo para hablar, siquiera un momento."

6. "There is no time to talk, not even for a moment."

Idiomatic Expressions

"Siquiera" appears in various idiomatic expressions that convey a sense of minimality or hope. Here are a few examples:

1. "Por si acaso, al menos lleva un paraguas, siquiera sea pequeño."

2. "Just in case, at least take an umbrella, even if it’s small."

3. "Siquiera una vez debería visitarnos."

4. "You should visit us at least once."

5. "Siquiera así ella se sentiría mejor."

6. "Even so, she would feel better."

7. "Agradezco que al menos hayan venido, siquiera por un instante."

8. "I appreciate that at least you came, even for a moment."

9. "Siquiera eso deberías considerar antes de decidir."

10. "At least that you should consider before making a decision."

Etymology

The word "siquiera" originates from the Latin term "sicut" meaning "just as" or "like," combined with "era," which refers to a condition or state. This evolution reflects its current use as a comparative notion of sufficiency or minimalism.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Al menos (at least)

• Ni siquiera (not even)

• Antonyms:

• Nunca (never)
• Jamás (never, ever)