Skip to content
How can I avoid using false friends in Spanish when speaking with native speakers visualisation

How can I avoid using false friends in Spanish when speaking with native speakers

False friends when learning Spanish: How can I avoid using false friends in Spanish when speaking with native speakers
Learn with Comprenders App About Comprenders

Avoiding false friends in Spanish when speaking with native speakers requires awareness and practice. False friends are words that look or sound similar in English and Spanish but have different meanings. Here are some strategies to help you avoid these pitfalls:

Identify Common False Friends

Familiarize yourself with common false friends between English and Spanish. Here are a few examples:

  • Embarazada (pregnant) vs. Embarrassed (avergonzada)
  • Molestar (bother) vs. Molest (abusar sexualmente)
  • Constipado (a cold) vs. Constipated (estreñido)
  • Éxito (success) vs. Exit (salida)
  • Librería (bookstore) vs. Library (biblioteca) 1, 2, 7.

Study and Memorize

Dedicate time to learning these misleading vocabulary pairs just as you would with any new words. Create flashcards or lists to regularly review them 10.

Use Contextual Clues

Pay attention to the context in which words are used. This can help you discern whether a word is being used as a false friend or not. For example, if someone is talking about health, “constipado” likely refers to having a cold, not being constipated.

Ask for Clarification

If you’re unsure about the meaning of a word during a conversation, don’t hesitate to ask the speaker to explain it or use it in another sentence. This not only helps clarify meanings but also shows your interest in learning 10.

Practice Regularly

Engage in regular conversation practice with native speakers through language exchange platforms or conversation groups. This will expose you to the natural use of language and help reinforce correct vocabulary usage 3, 4, 6.

Use Language Learning Tools

Leverage language learning apps and online resources that focus on vocabulary building and speaking practice. These tools often include exercises specifically designed to address false friends 4, 6.

Immerse Yourself in Spanish Media

Listen to Spanish music, watch movies, and read books in Spanish to naturally encounter these words in context. This exposure will help solidify your understanding of their correct meanings and uses 8, 9.

By actively studying false friends, practicing regularly, and immersing yourself in the language, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of making mistakes with these tricky word pairs when speaking Spanish.

References

Open the App About Comprenders