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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/θarˈθwela/ (in Spain) or /sarˈswela/ (in Latin America)

Translation Options into English

• Zarzuela (a type of Spanish operetta)
• Musical play

Meaning and Usage

Zarzuela refers to a Spanish lyric-dramatic genre that alternates between spoken and sung scenes, incorporating various musical styles. It originated in Spain in the 17th century and is characterized by a mix of serious and comic elements. Zarzuela is commonly performed in theaters and is an important part of Spanish cultural heritage. The word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, especially in cultural discussions, program notes, and critiques.

Example Sentences

1. La zarzuela se representará este fin de semana en el teatro local.
   "The zarzuela will be performed this weekend at the local theater."

2. He disfrutado mucho de la zarzuela que vimos la semana pasada.
   "I really enjoyed the zarzuela we saw last week."

3. La zarzuela es un género musical que combina canto y diálogo.
   "Zarzuela is a musical genre that combines singing and dialogue."

Idiomatic Expressions Involving "Zarzuela"

Although "zarzuela" is primarily a specific cultural reference, it can appear in idiomatic expressions related to performance or drama, emphasizing theatricality or melodrama.

1. "Montar un zarzuela"
   "To put on a zarzuela" refers to creating a scene that is overly dramatic or theatrical, often in a comedic context.
   Example: Cuando comenzó a gritar en la reunión, parecía que estaba montando una zarzuela.
   "When he started shouting in the meeting, it looked like he was putting on a zarzuela."

2. "Estar en una zarzuela"
   This expression describes being in a complicated or chaotic situation.
   Example: La fiesta se volvió un desastre y parecía que todos estaban en una zarzuela.
   "The party turned into a disaster and it seemed like everyone was in a zarzuela."

3. "Hacer una zarzuela"
   To make a scene or create unnecessary fuss.
   Example: No hay que hacer una zarzuela por un pequeño error.
   "There’s no need to make a scene over a small mistake."

Etymology

The term "zarzuela" originates from the Spanish word for "a place with a bush" or "thicket," which is derived from "zarza" meaning "bramble" or "thornbush." This name was used for the first performances held in the La Zarzuela palace in the 17th century, where the musical genre started to gain popularity.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Comedia musical (musical comedy)
- Opereta (operette)

Antonyms:
- Drama (drama)
- Tragedia (tragedy)