Goong.com - New Generation Dictionary

The Meaning of basura

Basura

Definition:
“Basura” is a Spanish noun that translates to “trash” or “garbage” in English. It refers to waste material, especially refuse or litter that is discarded from homes, businesses, or public places. In a broader context, it can also signify anything considered worthless or of little value.

Usage:

  1. Literal Usage:
    • “Necesitamos sacar la basura de la casa.”
      (We need to take out the trash from the house.)
  2. Figurative Usage:
    • “Este libro es una basura, no vale la pena leerlo.”
      (This book is trash; it’s not worth reading.)

Etymology:
The word “basura” comes from the Vulgar Latin baccaria, which is derived from baccari, meaning “to throw.” The transition indicates the act of discarding unwanted items. The term has maintained the connotation of refuse through its transformation from Latin to modern Spanish.

Pronunciation:
/baˈsuɾa/
It is pronounced as “bah-SOO-rah” in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA).

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Additional Notes:

“Basura” can also appear in idiomatic expressions or colloquial phrases in Spanish, often emphasizing something that is undesirable or of poor quality. The variations in meaning and usage depend on context, such as in environmental discussions (recycling, waste management) or in casual conversation (describing something disappointing).

  1. La basura está acumulada en la esquina de la calle.
    (The trash is piled up in the corner of the street.)

  2. Es importante reciclar la basura para proteger el medio ambiente.
    (It is important to recycle the trash to protect the environment.)

  3. No arrojes basura en el parque, por favor.
    (Please do not throw trash in the park.)

  4. La basura se recoge todos los lunes en nuestra zona.
    (The trash is collected every Monday in our area.)

  5. Siempre llevo una bolsa para la basura cuando salgo a caminar.
    (I always carry a bag for trash when I go for a walk.)