False friends VII
False friends are words in two languages that look or sound similar but have different meanings. Here are some more examples of common mistakes:
1. False friend: argument
Correct meaning: discusión
Example: Mis padres tuvieron una discusión sobre lo que iban a hacer después de cenar.
My parents had an argument about what they were going to do after dinner.
*Note: It can be translated as “argumento” when we are talking about a plot or reasoning.
Example: No me gusta el argumento de esta película.
I don´t like the plot of this film.
2. False friend: deception
Correct meaning: engaño
Example: Incluso cuando se descubrió su engaño, no dijo la verdad.
Even when his deception was discovered, he didn´t tell the truth.
*Note: It could be translated as “decepción” but it´s more common to use the word “decepción” for “disappointment.
Example: Es una gran decepción cuando estudias mucho pero suspendes un examen.
It´s a big disappointment when you study a lot and you fail an exam.
3. False friend: genial
Correct meaning: amable, simpático
Example: Si ella fuera amable, tendría más amigos.
If she were genial, she would have more friends.
*Note: In Spanish "genial" means "great, brilliant, fantastic"
4. False friend: conductor
Correct meaning: revisor, director de orquesta
Example: Tenemos un gran director de orquesta en nuestra escuela.
We have a great conductor in our school.
*Note: It can be translated as “conductor” when we are talking about materials that conduct heat, etc. However "conductor" in Spanish usually means "driver".
Example: La carne humana es un excelente conductor de energía.
Human flesh is an excellent conductor of electricity.
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