10 most common false cognates in Spanish that very few notice

What are False Cognates?

False cognates are words in two languages that share similarities in their written form and/or pronunciation; however, they differ in meaning. Because they look and sound so similar, these types of words often create confusion, especially for Spanish beginners. That’s why it's crucial to identify and understand them as soon as possible.

10 Most Common False Cognates in Spanish

• Carpeta vs Carpet
  • Spanish: Carpeta means folder.
  • English: Carpet means alfombra.
• Éxito vs Exit
  • Spanish: Éxito means success.
  • English: Exit means salida.
• Embarazada vs Embarrassed
  • Spanish: Embarazada means pregnant.
  • English: Embarrassed means avergonzado.
• Realizar vs Realize
  • Spanish: Realizar means to carry out.
  • English: Realize means darse cuenta.
• Ropa vs Rope
  • Spanish: Ropa means clothes.
  • English: Rope means cuerda.
• Sopa vs Soap
  • Spanish: Sopa means soup.
  • English: Soap means jabón.
• Introducir vs Introduce
  • Spanish: Introducir means to insert.
  • English: Introduce means presentar.
• Despertar vs Desperate
  • Spanish: Despertar means to wake up.
  • English: Desperate means desesperado.
• Recordar vs Record
  • Spanish: Recordar means to remember.
  • English: Record means registrar.
• Estimar vs Estimate
  • Spanish: Estimar means to value.
  • English: Estimate means calcular.

Wow! After reviewing this list, it makes sense that Spanish beginners get confused. Even so, these confusing words in Spanish make learning even more fun. Let’s continue!

Tips for Mastering False Cognates

When we talk about confusing words in Spanish, false cognates are the stars. However, that doesn’t mean that Spanish beginners can’t apply strategies to help avoid confusion. Pay special attention! Here are some useful tips to master false cognates in Spanish:

• Make Your Own List: Every time you come across new false cognates, write them down! This will help you recognize them easily in the future.
• Pay Attention to Context: Focus on the context in which a word is used; this will help you quickly identify its true meaning.
• Make Comparison Flashcards: When you find new false cognates, create a flashcard and write both words with a brief definition, along with an example for each. This way, you’ll be better prepared the next time you need to use them.
• Use Reliable Resources: Always have a reliable source, whether in print or online, that helps you quickly verify the meaning of those confusing Spanish words that give you doubts. This way, you can check the correct definition of a word before using it.
• Seek Help from Native Speakers: Ask your Spanish-speaking friends, family, and teachers to correct your use of false cognates. This will help you resolve your doubts quickly and avoid carrying confusion into the future.
• Correct Mistakes Consciously: Try to remember precisely the false cognates that have been most challenging for you. For example, if you've confused "embarazada" with "embarrassed" in the past, make an effort to remember the difference for next time.

Don’t worry if you’re still falling into the trap of false cognates. Learning to identify them can take some time; however, with constant practice and mindful study, you’ll master them.

We hope you found this list of the 10 most common false cognates in Spanish helpful! If you pay attention to the context, make flashcards, rely on native speakers, and practice conscious correction, you’ll master false cognates before they master you.

Good luck! See you next time!