Noun (feminine singular or plural)
/tiˈnjen.βlas/
The term "tinieblas" refers to a state of darkness, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. Literally, it signifies low light conditions where visibility is poor. Metaphorically, it can represent ignorance, confusion, or evil. In everyday Spanish, it can be used both in oral and written contexts, although it may be more prevalent in literary texts or formal speeches when discussing themes of morality, ignorance, or evil versus good.
Las tinieblas cubrieron el bosque al caer la noche.
The darkness covered the forest as night fell.
A veces, las tinieblas de la ignorancia son más peligrosas que la luz de la verdad.
Sometimes, the darkness of ignorance is more dangerous than the light of truth.
Los miedos de la infancia pueden surgir de las tinieblas.
Childhood fears can arise from the shadows.
Although "tinieblas" may not be as commonly featured in fixed idiomatic expressions, it is often used in phrases that convey moral or social concepts relating to ignorance or lack of enlightenment. Here are some expressions that highlight its use:
Estar en la tinieblas
To be in the dark (about something)
La comunidad estaba en la tinieblas acerca de los problemas ambientales.
The community was in the dark about the environmental issues.
Sacar de las tinieblas
To bring out of darkness (to enlighten someone)
El nuevo libro busca sacar a los lectores de las tinieblas de la desinformación.
The new book aims to bring readers out of the darkness of misinformation.
Navegar en tinieblas
To navigate in darkness (to operate without clear knowledge)
Los gestores de proyectos a menudo navegan en tinieblas si no tienen información clara.
Project managers often navigate in darkness if they lack clear information.
The word "tinieblas" comes from the Latin "tenebrae," which means darkness or shadows. Over time, it evolved into the Old Spanish "tinieblas" and has retained both its literal and metaphorical meanings.
This comprehensive breakdown provides an insight into the word "tinieblas," illustrating its diverse uses and meanings within the Spanish language.