neutral
very common
Usage
Native Spanish speakers frequently use 'llamar' in everyday situations, such as making a phone call or calling someone's name in a casual setting. For example, you might hear a parent calling their child in a park or a friend saying, 'Voy a llamarte mañana' (I will call you tomorrow).
Synonyms & nuances
'Llamar' is often used interchangeably with 'invitar' when referring to calling someone to an event, but 'invitar' specifically means 'to invite,' adding a layer of social context. When you want to simply get someone's attention, 'llamar' is the go-to choice, highlighting the action of calling rather than inviting.
Culture
'Llamar' originates from the Latin word 'clamare,' meaning 'to shout' or 'to cry out.' This connection to vocal communication highlights the importance of voice in human interactions. In many Spanish-speaking countries, the act of calling someone can also signify a social connection and is often accompanied by greetings or warm expressions.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of llamar in English?
'Llamar' translates to 'to call' in English. It can refer to making a phone call or calling someone’s name to get their attention.
Q.How do you conjugate llamar in the present tense?
'Llamar' is a regular verb. In the present tense, it conjugates as: yo llamo, tú llamas, él/ella llama, nosotros llamamos, and ellos/ellas llaman.
Q.Can llamar be used in a formal context?
Yes, 'llamar' can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For instance, in a formal setting, you might say, 'Le llamo para discutir...' (I am calling you to discuss...).