The Meaning of carrera

Carrera

Definition:

In Spanish, “carrera” primarily means “race” as in a competition of speed, particularly involving running, cycling, or driving. Additionally, it can refer to an “academic career,” indicating a course of study or professional path. The term can also be used in general contexts to mean a “career” in a professional sense.

Usage:

1. Race Context:

   • “Ella ganó la carrera de 100 metros.” (She won the 100-meter race.)

2. Academic/Professional Context:

   • “Estudió medicina y ahora tiene una carrera exitosa.” (She studied medicine and now has a successful career.)

Etymology:

The word “carrera” comes from Latin “carrera,” which means ’the act of running’. The roots derive from “currere,” which means ’to run.’ With the evolution of language, its meaning expanded to include not only physical races but also metaphorical races, such as career paths in life.

Pronunciation:

In phonetic terms, “carrera” is pronounced as [ka’re.ra] with the stress on the second syllable.

Synonyms:

• For Race:

  • “competición” (competition),
  • “concurso” (contest).

• For Career:

  • “profesión” (profession),
  • “trayectoria” (trajectory).

Antonyms:

• For Race:

  • “parada” (stop),
  • “lento” (slow, adj.).

• For Career:

  • “ocioso” (idle),
  • “desempleado” (unemployed).

Overall, “carrera” is a versatile term frequently encountered in both everyday conversation and formal language within the contexts of sports and professional life.

1. Ella está estudiando para su carrera en medicina.
   (She is studying for her medical career.)

2. La carrera de mi hermano es la ingeniería.
   (My brother’s career is engineering.)

3. Participé en una carrera de bicicletas el fin de semana.
   (I participated in a bicycle race over the weekend.)

4. La carrera profesional de los atletas es corta.
   (The professional career of athletes is short.)

5. La universidad ofrece muchas opciones de carrera.
   (The university offers many career options.)