Learning English is not just about memorizing vocabulary: you also have to watch out for so-called "false friends". These are words that look similar to Spanish, but have a completely different meaning. In this post, I show you some of the most common ones so you don't fall into the trap.
1. Actually ≠ Currently
Actually means "in reality" or "in fact". If you mean "currently", the correct word is currently.
- Incorrect: I actually live in Madrid.
- Correct: I currently live in Madrid.
2. Library ≠ Bookstore
Library is "biblioteca". If you want to talk about a bookstore, you say bookstore.
- Incorrect: I bought this book in the library.
- Correct: I bought this book in the bookstore.
3. Embarrassed ≠ Pregnant.
This is a classic. Embarrassed means " embarrassed ". "Embarazada" in English is pregnant.
- Incorrect: I'm embarrassed with my baby.
- Correct: I'm pregnant with my baby.
4. Sensitive ≠ Sensitive
Sensible means "sensible". If you mean someone who is emotionally sensitive, it is sensitive.
- Incorrect: He's a very sensitive person, he cries easily.
- Correct: He's a very sensitive person, he cries easily.
5. Perform ≠ Perform
Realize means "to realize." "Realize" (as in carry out an action) translates as carry out or do.
- Incorrect: I realized a project at work.
- Correct: I carried out a project at work.
These are just a few of the many examples I could cite, but there are many more. Knowing the dreaded false friends will help you communicate more clearly and avoid misunderstandings.
Tell me! Have you ever been confused by one of these false friends?