Once

Meaning: Actually means 'eleven'. For once (one time), say una vez.

Language: Spanish

Literally: once

Category: Everyday

Origin: From Latin undecim, 'eleven' — its spelling matches English 'once' by pure coincidence.

More false friends — Everyday

• Monnaie — Actually means 'change' or 'coins'. Money in general is l'argent.
• Pasta — Actually means 'folder' or 'briefcase'. Pasta (the food) is massa.
• Gift — Actually means 'poison'. A present is ein Geschenk.
• Éxito — Actually means 'success'. An exit is una salida.
• Handy — Actually means 'a mobile phone'. For handy/useful, say praktisch.
• Fast — Actually means 'almost'. For fast/quick, say schnell.

More Spanish false friends

• Vaso — Actually means 'a drinking glass'. A vase (for flowers) is un jarrón or florero.
• Embarazada — Actually means 'pregnant'. For embarrassed, say avergonzado/a.
• Constipado — Actually means 'having a head cold'. Estoy constipado = I have a cold.
• Actual — Actually means 'current' or 'present'. For actual (real), say real or verdadero.
• Largo — Actually means 'long'. For large, say grande.
• Molestar — Actually means 'to bother' or 'to annoy'. ¿Te molesta el ruido? = Does the noise bother y…

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