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

Part of Speech

Adjective, also used as a noun in plural form.

Phonetic Transcription

/tweɾ.to/

Translation Options into English

• One-eyed (adjective)
• The one-eyed (noun, when referring to a person)

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "tuerto" refers to someone who has lost vision in one eye or is blind in one eye. It can be used both in a literal sense, to describe a physical condition, and in figurative expressions.

Its frequency of use is moderate, with more occurrences in written contexts, such as literature or formal discussions, than in everyday oral speech. However, it may still appear in casual conversations when discussing someone who has this specific condition.

Example Sentences

1. "Mi abuelo es tuerto desde la guerra."

2. "My grandfather has been one-eyed since the war."

3. "El héroe de la historia era un tuerto que luchó valientemente."

4. "The hero of the story was a one-eyed man who fought bravely."

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "tuerto" finds its way into several idiomatic expressions, particularly in Spanish-speaking cultures. Here are a few:

1. "El mundo es de los tuertos"
2. Literal Translation: "The world belongs to the one-eyed."

3. Meaning: This expression suggests that sometimes, those who may seem disadvantaged or limited (like a one-eyed person) may have specific advantages or be more capable in certain situations.

4. Example: "En este negocio, el que tiene menos recursos a veces se sale con la suya; el mundo es de los tuertos."

   • "In this business, sometimes those with fewer resources come out on top; the world belongs to the one-eyed."

5. "Un ojo tuerto y otro ciego"

6. Literal Translation: "One eye one-eyed and the other blind."

7. Meaning: This phrase is used to indicate someone who is not entirely capable or who has flaws in judgment.

8. Example: "Con su manera de actuar parece que tiene un ojo tuerto y otro ciego."

   • "With his behavior, it seems he has one eye one-eyed and the other blind."

Etymology

The word "tuerto" is derived from the Latin "torctus," which means "twisted" or "crooked." The transition from Latin to Old Spanish led to the modern Spanish term, which specifically took on the meaning of "one-eyed."

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - "Invidente" (when referring to a person who is blind in one eye) - "Ciego" (though "ciego" refers to complete blindness)

Antonyms: - "Bilateral" (pertaining to both sides; referring to someone who has full vision in both eyes) - "Visión completa" (full vision)

This word exhibits rich meaning and usage in both literal and idiomatic contexts within the Spanish language, highlighting its cultural significance.