For those who do not know what an anglicism is, they are terms that we borrow from English and incorporate them into our language. This is something that happens in all languages!
However, it is something we must be careful when we try to use them as they are, as sometimes the words do not match the way we use them.
In this blog post, we are going to take a look at some of the most used anglicisms and how to use them correctly in Spanish. Read on to find out more!
Anglicisms in travel
One of the most obvious environments where Anglicisms are used is in travel, as hotels and airports communicate in English with their customers.
Here are some examples: What time is check-in / checkout? → (Being at an airport): What time is check-in / checkout? Where can I check in / out? → (Being in a hotel): What time can I check in / check out / is check in? I’m sorry, due to overbooking there is no more room on the flight. → I’m sorry, there has been overbooking / overbooking and there are no seats left on this flight. The holiday was all inclusive. → It was an all inclusive / all inclusive vacation package.
Pay special attention to check-in and check-out.
If you look at them they act as nouns, but check in and check out act as verbs.
In Spanish, however, they are used only as nouns.
Anglicisms with technology and the world of work
Another environment where it is very common to see Anglicisms is in the work environment and new technologies.
Let’s look at some common examples: Did you see my email about the meeting? → Did you see my email / mail about the meeting? I’ll email you the details → I then send you the details by email / mail. Note: In English, it would not be correct to say “…”.I’ll send you by email the details“We should therefore pay special attention.
I have a meeting at 5 → I have a meeting at 5 o’clock.
Sports
The names of sports are often anglicized, however, on some occasions we must be careful because in English some words are verbs, while in Spanish they act as nouns.
I love surfing → I love surfing / surfing. Can you windsurf? → Do you know how to windsurf?
Anglicisms with food and beverages
For the most part, the anglicisms used in Spanish referring to food or drink work identically.
However, there are a few that you should be careful with, here they are: Would you like a sandwich? → Would you like a bocadillo / sandwich? Chips (U.S.) → Potato chips (bagged). Chips (UK). → They usually say it referring to potatoes that are peeled, cut up and fried. Crisps (UK) → French fries (bagged).
That would be it for this article!
We hope it has helped you to clear up some of the doubts you might have regarding some of the Spanish anglicisms.
Now, don’t misuse them again!