Category: The language today

Categories
The language today

Spanish in science: Terminology and Presence of the Language in Research

For decades, science and technology have been dominated by English, but Spanish is not far behind. Although many papers and conferences are written in English, our language plays a key role in various areas of knowledge, from botany to artificial intelligence. Yes, there is also room for Spanish in the world of algorithms and neural networks.

Spanish in botany: A green legacy

If there is a field where Spanish has taken root, it is in botany. It is no coincidence that many plants have names in Spanish or Latin with a Hispanic influence. From quina (cinchona), whose active ingredient (quinine) was used as a treatment for malaria, to the ceibo (Erythrina crista-galli), the emblematic tree of Argentina and Uruguay, the jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) or the quebracho (Schinopsis), Spanish terms have nourished the science of the classification and description of flora.

Spanish-speaking botanists have significantly contributed to the classification of species in Latin America. Terms such as “epífita” “epiphyte” (a plant that grows on another without parasitising it) or “xerófila” “xerophilous” (adapted to dry climates) are used in Spanish in scientific literature. Even many species of orchids and cacti are named after Spanish-speaking explorers and naturalists.

Artificial Intelligence in Spanish: Neural Networks and Beyond

Spanish is also present in the world of technology. Concepts such as “deep learning”, “natural language processing” (NLP) and “convolutional neural networks” (CNN) have their equivalents in Spanish and are increasingly used in research. Artificial intelligence models trained specifically for Spanish, such as BETO (a Spanish version of BERT, the Google model), have emerged in recent years.

In voice recognition, optical character recognition (OCR) and speech-to-text technologies have progressed in interpreting Spanish, allowing virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant to understand regional accents and idioms better. We cannot forget vector databases and RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) architectures, which are helping language models generate more accurate responses in our language.

Medicine and biochemistry: Terms that cross borders

Medicine is also strongly influenced by Spanish. Many terms in pharmacology and biochemistry come from our language or have been adapted to English. An example is “dopamine,” derived from “dopa,” a substance discovered in the 1950s whose name comes from the amino acid L-Dopa. Another example is “placebo,” a word of Latin origin used equally in Spanish and English.

In Latin America, research into tropical diseases such as dengue or Chagas has produced its terminology, reinforcing Spanish’s role in global scientific communication.

Science in Spanish: More than an option, a necessity

Although English continues to dominate scientific publication, Spanish is present in generating knowledge in multiple disciplines. Its use is not only a question of identity, but also of access. Publishing in Spanish allows more Spanish-speaking researchers to access information without language barriers.

For this reason, promoting scientific dissemination in Spanish through blogs, podcasts, and videos on platforms such as YouTube helps make science accessible in our language.

Also promoting the teaching of scientific terminology in Spanish: in many Spanish-speaking countries, science students learn concepts in English, which sometimes makes scientific communication in their native language difficult.

Our language continues to leave its mark in botany, artificial intelligence, and medicine. So, the next time you use a chatbot in Spanish or read about a new species of orchid, remember that science in our language is still alive and evolving.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
The language today

Words in Spanish That Have Changed Their Meaning Over Time (And Surprised Us Along the Way!)

Spanish never stops surprising us. It’s a living language that evolves with the people who speak it, and a clear example of this is the words whose meanings have changed over time. Some have transformed so much that if we travelled back in time, people would probably give us strange looks for using them the way we do today. Here are some linguistic stories that will make you smile.

Villano (Villain)

Today, we call the “villano” the evil character in a movie or the antagonist of a story. But if we go back a few centuries, the term had a humbler origin: a “villano” was simply someone who lived in a small village. So, how did a humble villager turn into a sinister character? Over time, the term acquired negative connotations by associating with lower-class people and, later, with questionable behaviour.

Bizarro (Bizarre)

This word is a perfect example of an unexpected twist. Originally, “bizarro” meant brave, generous, or noble, something worthy of a hero. However, the influence of the English word bizarre turned it into a synonym for strange or unusual. Today, depending on who you ask, it could mean either one.

Azafata (Flight Attendant)

Today, we think of an “azafata” as a friendly person who assists us on an aeroplane. But initially, the term referred to a lady-in-waiting in a royal court who served queens and princesses. It wasn’t until the 20th century, with the rise of air travel, that the word began to be used for the cabin crew. Pretty interesting, right? From palaces to the sky!

Formidable

Today, we say something is “formidable” to mean excellent, impressive, or outstanding. However, in its origin, this word had a darker nuance. It came from the Latin formidabilis, which meant “fear-inspiring” or “terrible.” Over time, that initial fear transformed into admiration, making the term more positive.

Burro (Donkey)

Yes, we all know the word “burro” refers to a lovable animal (or someone who isn’t very intelligent, though that’s a bit unfair). But did you know that in Latin, burricus meant “small horse”? What started as an elegant term ended up becoming much more rural.

Rodilla (Knee)

If you thought “rodilla” always referred only to the knee joint, think again. In Old Spanish, this word was also used to describe the elbow. Imagine the confusion in a medical conversation from that time!

Almohada (Pillow)

“Almohada” is an Arabic word (al-mukhadda) meaning “the place where you rest your cheek.” Though its function hasn’t changed much, the term has evolved across centuries and regions to become the sweet place where we rest our heads every night.

Botella (Bottle)

Nowadays, we think of a “botella” as a glass container, but in the Middle Ages, the term referred to clay jugs. With the arrival of new materials, the word evolved into the meaning we know today.

These stories remind us that Spanish is much more than just grammar rules: it’s a time machine reflecting our history and culture. Do you know of any other words that have changed their meaning? Please share your favourite, and let’s keep exploring the wonders of our language together!

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
The language today

New Words in the RAE! From “Espóiler” to “Teletrabajar”: How Our Language Evolves

Hey there, word enthusiasts! The Spanish language, as vibrant as it is, is constantly evolving. The Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) updates its dictionary annually, reflecting how people speak. The latest update is no exception, with over 4,000 changes, including new words, updated definitions, and even some long-awaited acknowledgements of terms we’ve used for years. Let’s explore a few of the highlights and what they mean for the evolution of Spanish.

Espóiler

We’ve all been there. You’re midway through a series or eagerly waiting to watch a movie, and someone drops a spoiler. Now, the word “espóiler” is officially part of the dictionary. Borrowed from English, it refers to revealing key plot points that ruin a fictional work’s surprise element. While some language purists criticise the use of anglicisms, the reality is that terms like this have become so ingrained in everyday conversation that their inclusion feels natural. After all, language evolves to meet the needs of its speakers.

Teletrabajar

If there’s one word that perfectly encapsulates the pandemic era, it’s “teletrabajar.” This term, meaning to work remotely using telecommunication tools, became a part of our collective vocabulary as millions worldwide transitioned to working from home. The RAE’s formal recognition acknowledges the societal shift in how we approach work. With remote work becoming a permanent option for many, this term isn’t going anywhere.

Sérum

For skincare aficionados, “sérum” is hardly a novelty. This lightweight cosmetic product, applied before heavier creams, targets specific skin concerns like hydration or anti-ageing. Including this word highlights how lifestyle trends, such as the growing emphasis on skincare, influence the evolution of language. Beauty enthusiasts everywhere can point to the dictionary and say, “See? It’s official!”

Dana

Although it might sound like a name, “dana” is an acronym for Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos (Isolated Depression in Upper Levels). This meteorological phenomenon often brings intense storms and heavy rainfall, particularly in some areas of Spain. Given its growing importance in weather reports and climate discussions, its addition to the dictionary reflects how language adapts to describe our environment and its challenges.

Barista

Coffee culture has exploded in recent years, and so has the term “barista.” A barista is a professional who prepares high-quality coffee, often with impressive latte art. The word’s inclusion in the dictionary is a nod to the global influence of coffee culture and its growing importance in daily life.

Tabulé

Culinary terms often enter the dictionary as global cuisines become more accessible. Tabulé, a Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and other fresh ingredients, is one such example. Its recognition in the RAE dictionary is a testament to how food connects cultures and enriches our vocabulary.

More New Additions

The latest update isn’t just about the words we’ve covered. Terms like “chorreo” (meaning a scolding or reprimand), “microplástico” (microplastic), and even playful entries like “techno” (a music genre) have also been added. These words span a wide range of topics, from environmental issues to pop culture, showcasing the dynamic and inclusive nature of the Spanish language.

A Living Language

Language is alive and constantly changing to reflect the world around us. The RAE’s role is to document these changes and provide a framework for how Spanish is spoken and written. Some additions may spark debate—is “espóiler” necessary when we could say “descriptor” or “arruinar”? Does including anglicisms dilute the purity of the language? But ultimately, these changes represent how people use Spanish today.

What do you think of these new additions? Do they feel like natural evolutions, or do you think some are unnecessary? Regardless of where you stand, one thing is clear: language belongs to its speakers, and together, we shape how it grows and evolves.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
IA and iScribo The language today

Chatbots and Text Generators in Spanish: Applications, Potential, and Challenges

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised how we interact with technology in the digital age. One of its most prominent developments is the rise of chatbots and text generators, tools that have transformed how businesses, educators, and individuals create and process information. Regarding Spanish, these models reveal unique challenges and opportunities highlighting the language’s diversity and complexity.

Applications of Spanish Text Generators

Chatbots and text generators in Spanish are being utilised across a wide range of sectors:

  1. Customer service: Companies worldwide use Spanish-speaking chatbots to interact with clients in real-time. These virtual assistants resolve queries, process orders, and provide technical support 24/7, enhancing customer experience while reducing operational costs.
  2. Education and learning: Text generators are invaluable for creating personalised learning materials. They can answer questions, explain concepts, and even help students practice their writing skills in Spanish.
  3. Marketing and content creation: With these tools, crafting advertisements, social media posts, or blogs in Spanish has become much more efficient. Businesses can maintain an active online presence without spending hours writing and editing.
  4. Translation and localisation: While not direct translators, text generators can help adapt content to fit the linguistic and cultural nuances of Spanish-speaking regions.
  5. Healthcare and legal assistance: Specialized chatbots provide reliable information and assist with initial queries in understandable language, though their precision and sensitivity can be limited.

Limitations and Challenges of Spanish-Language Models

Despite their versatility, Spanish text generators face several significant challenges:

  1. Coherence and context: Spanish, with its complex grammar and regional variations, can pose problems for AI models. Sentences may lack coherence or fail to align with specific contexts. For instance, terms like ordenador and computadora vary by country, and improper usage can cause confusion or seem unnatural.
  2. Cultural nuances and local expressions: Chatbots often struggle to reflect the culture, idioms, and phrases unique to a specific region. A response that works perfectly in Mexico might not resonate in Argentina or Spain, emphasising the need for training models with diverse and representative data.
  3. Semantic ambiguity: Spanish is rich in polysemous words—terms with multiple meanings depending on context. AI models sometimes misinterpret these nuances, leading to inaccurate or unhelpful responses.
  4. Lack of continuous updates: Many models rely on static datasets and may not keep pace with linguistic trends or emerging terms, limiting their ability to adapt to new language uses.
  5. Ethics and misinformation: Text generators can inadvertently spread errors, outdated information, or biases in their training data. This issue becomes critical when users assume the output is always correct.

Overcoming Challenges: Toward Inclusivity

Developers of Spanish-language AI models are implementing strategies to address these challenges:

  • Training with diverse datasets: Including texts from multiple Spanish-speaking regions and contexts helps create more culturally and linguistically competent models.
  • Human oversight: Incorporating human reviewers to adjust and refine model outputs significantly improves their accuracy and relevance.
  • Contextual adaptation: Designing chatbots tailored to specific industries or regions can provide more valuable and natural interactions.
  • Regular updates: It is essential to ensure that models are continuously updated to incorporate new terms and reflect the language’s evolving nature.

An Ally, Not a Replacement

While chatbots and text generators can streamline processes and boost productivity, they do not replace human creativity, critical thinking, or cultural understanding. Instead, they work best as complementary tools that enhance human capabilities.

For instance, a writer might use a text generator to brainstorm ideas or draft content, but the final review—requiring sensitivity to tone, style, and purpose—remains a human responsibility.

The Impact of Spanish on Global AI

The growth of Spanish-language chatbots and text generators reflects the increasing recognition of Spanish as a global force. As companies expand into Spanish-speaking markets, the demand for AI models capable of producing high-quality content in Spanish continues to rise.

This development benefits businesses and Spanish speakers, who gain access to tools tailored to their linguistic and cultural needs.

Spanish-language chatbots and text generators have unlocked new commerce, education, and digital communication possibilities. However, their limitations—particularly in coherence and cultural adaptation—highlight the importance of developing more inclusive and precise models.

Spanish is a complex language rich in nuances and diversity, and advancements in AI must reflect this richness to maximise its positive impact. For now, these models remind us how technology can enhance our lives—provided we approach its use with a critical and human-centred perspective.

As the demand for Spanish continues to grow globally, AI tools will play an increasingly vital role in breaking down language barriers, fostering connections, and opening up new opportunities in the interconnected world of tomorrow.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
The language today

Spanish in Business: The Language of Today and the Future

Spanish, with over 500 million native speakers and official status in 21 countries, has evolved from being a cultural communication tool to a key asset in international business. In an increasingly globalised world where opportunities transcend borders, speaking Spanish can mean the difference between closing a successful deal or falling behind the competition.

A Growing Market

With countries like Mexico, Spain, and Colombia establishing themselves as regional economic powerhouses, Spanish is the second most spoken language globally by native speakers and the third most used language on the Internet, surpassed only by English and Chinese. This growth highlights not only its cultural relevance but also its commercial potential.

For example, with its continually expanding market, Latin America represents an attractive destination for foreign investment. Sectors such as technology, agribusiness, renewable energy, and e-commerce are booming, and knowing the local language facilitates transactions and builds trust with business partners.

Trust is Key in the Business World

Speaking a client’s or partner’s language enables smoother communication and demonstrates respect for their culture and values. This gesture can be decisive in Spanish-speaking countries, where personal relationships are often as meaningful as professional ones.

Moreover, many technical and financial terms in Spanish have unique nuances that don’t always translate directly into English or other languages. Understanding these linguistic subtleties helps prevent misunderstandings and costly errors. For instance, terms like factura (invoice), nómina (payroll), or responsabilidad limitada (limited liability) carry specific meanings within legal and accounting contexts that vary from one country to another.

A Language for Digital Business

The digital revolution has also placed Spanish at the global economy’s centre. With millions of users consuming content online, businesses have begun investing in Spanish-language marketing and advertising strategies. From social media to e-commerce, having a presence in Spanish can open doors to untapped markets.

Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have enormous Spanish-speaking audiences, making Spanish an indispensable tool for any company aiming to expand its reach. Furthermore, in the digital economy, localising products and services in Spanish is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity.

Teaching Spanish as a Corporate Investment

Many international companies are incorporating Spanish language training into their internal development programs. Sales teams, executives, and managers are learning the language to improve their negotiation skills and expand their professional networks.

This investment benefits the company and its employees, who become more competitive in a globalised job market. Learning Spanish opens doors and helps professionals better understand local cultures, enabling them to design more effective and culturally appropriate strategies.

The Future of Spanish in Business

All signs point to Spanish playing an increasingly important role in business. Estimates suggest that by 2060, the United States will be the second-largest Spanish-speaking country in the world, emphasising the language’s importance in Latin America and emerging markets like the U.S.

Additionally, the growing interconnection between Asia and Latin America is positioning Spanish as a mediating language in transactions previously conducted exclusively in English. Asian companies seeking to establish themselves in the region are turning to bilingual professionals fluent in English and Spanish, recognising the language’s significance for international trade.

Beyond Words: A Language, a Culture

Speaking Spanish in business is not just about mastering technical vocabulary or knowing key phrases; it also involves understanding the cultural nuances of each country. For instance, in Mexico, using usted is essential to maintaining a respectful tone, while in Argentina, a more informal approach can foster greater closeness.

Meeting schedules, negotiation styles, and expectations of courtesy can also vary significantly. Mastering the language, therefore, is a way to adapt and thrive in a diverse environment.

The Power of Spanish in the Business World

Spanish is not just a language but a gateway to a vibrant, culturally rich market full of opportunities. In a world where global connections are essential, speaking Spanish is a competitive advantage that builds bridges, fosters trust, and opens new frontiers.

From traditional commerce to digital marketing and Latin America to Asia, Spanish is solidifying its position as the language of business today and in the future. So, if you’re considering learning it, don’t hesitate: investing in Spanish is investing in success.

Remember, whether you’re entering new markets or strengthening existing ones, Spanish is more than just a tool—it’s a key to unlocking global potential.

So, if you want to improve your writing in Spanish and correct any specific variant of this language, don’t forget to subscribe to our fantastic iScribo grammar checker. We look forward to seeing you!

Categories
The language today

Pronunciation of v and b in Spanish: which one is correct?

In Spanish, the question often arises as to whether or not there is a difference in the pronunciation of the letters v and b, mainly due to the influence of other languages, such as English, where this difference is clear. However, there is no phonetic distinction between the letters in modern Spanish, Spain, and Latin America. Both are pronounced similarly and are known as voiced bilabials, producing a sound represented in phonetics by the symbol /b/.

This unification in pronunciation has historical roots: in ancient Spanish, both sounds were distinguishable, but over time, the differences were lost. Today, throughout the Spanish-speaking world, the letters b and v often sound identical, which creates the peculiarity that, when speaking, these letters are distinguished only in writing. This characteristic means that in Spanish, the term “uve” is often used to refer to v and thus differentiate it from b, called “be”.

It is important to note that, although this equalisation in pronunciation is the norm in modern Spanish, some Spanish speakers in frequent contact with English tend to mark the difference between v and b when speaking Spanish, imitating the English pronunciation. This is observed in some areas of Latin America, where speakers, especially bilinguals, try to reproduce the difference to avoid confusion in English, a language in which b and v represent different sounds.

This distinction is also present, now spontaneously, in Valencian or Majorcan speakers and in areas of Catalonia due to the influence of Catalan. Additionally, it is found in certain very specific parts of America, where the influence of Amerindian languages has led to the use of labiodental articulation to pronounce the letter v.

From a normative perspective, the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) states that there is no need to make this distinction in Spanish since it is not part of the phonetic system of the language. So, to speak correctly in Spanish, it is optional to differentiate these sounds. This particularity of our language is an example of how it has evolved to simplify communication without losing clarity.

Now, from a linguistic point of view, there is no “mistake” in pronouncing b and v in one way or another; in fact, linguistics records the different ways of speaking. What is certain is that pronouncing b and v in the same way is the most widespread way in the Spanish-speaking world.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
The language today

Spanish in Education: Challenges and Opportunities in Language Teaching

As you well know, Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages ​​in the world and holds a prominent place in the global educational arena. With more than 500 million speakers, its teaching as a second language has gained relevance in non-Spanish-speaking countries and those seeking to expand global communication opportunities. However, its teaching process entails significant challenges but also presents numerous opportunities that can improve educational methods and enrich the learning experience.

Challenges in Teaching Spanish

One of the main challenges educators face when teaching Spanish as a second language is the diversity of the language’s variants (you can read more about this in this article, which discusses Spanish dialects worldwide). Spanish is a language with multiple dialectal variants and accents that vary from one region to another, both in Spain and Latin America. This diversity can significantly impact students’ learning, as they may find differences in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation depending on the country or region of their teacher or study materials. Therefore, educators must understand the diversity of Spanish dialects. This understanding can motivate them to find practical solutions and strategies to help students navigate this diversity and enhance their learning experience.

Another major challenge is Spanish’s grammatical complexity. Although it is a language derived from Latin and shares similarities with other Romance languages, Spanish has a rich and sometimes complicated grammar for non-native learners. Verb conjugations, with their numerous tenses and moods, such as the subjunctive, are particularly difficult for learners. In addition, the rules for agreement between gender and number and the use of pronouns and articles present additional challenges (you can read more about this here in our previous article on grammatical agreement).

In addition, students’ motivation and context play a crucial role in successful learning. Students who learn Spanish as a second language often do so for academic or professional reasons. Still, without constant exposure or the opportunity to practice in real-world settings, they may lose interest or struggle to achieve fluency. This challenge affects teachers and students, as maintaining enthusiasm for language learning requires creative strategies and an interactive approach.

Opportunities in Teaching Spanish

Teaching Spanish offers opportunities to improve and adapt pedagogical methods despite the challenges. The first opportunity arises from educational technology. In the digital age, language learning resources are abundant and accessible. Tools such as language learning apps, video conferencing platforms, and online audiovisual content such as Spanish-language movies, series, and podcasts offer students opportunities to immerse themselves in the language in highly interactive and entertaining ways. Educators can leverage these resources to complement classroom teaching, facilitating autonomous learning and continued practice outside the school environment.

Another key opportunity is the growing global demand for Spanish. Spanish has become a highly valued language for trade, diplomacy and tourism in many countries, especially in the United States, Europe and Asia. This has led to an increase in Spanish teaching programs in schools, universities, and language centres. This growing interest has allowed educators to innovate approaches and adapt to a broader and more diverse audience.

Improving Teaching Methods

To improve Spanish teaching methods, it is essential to adopt a student-centred approach that recognises individual needs and provides students with tools to learn autonomously and effectively. Personalising learning through technology and ongoing assessments can help teachers adapt content to students’ abilities and levels.

Another way to improve teaching methods is to foster authentic communication in the classroom rather than teaching based solely on grammar. Students should be able to interact in Spanish in actual or simulated situations that reflect how they will use the language in the future.

In short, technology integration, task-based approaches, and language immersion can transform the learning experience, helping students acquire meaningful and useful communicative competence for their professional and personal lives.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
The language today

AI and Spanish spelling and grammar correction

Suppose you have had to write content, whether a formal email or an academic or work document. In that case, you will know that it is essential to provide clear and valuable information and write it without spelling and grammatical errors because the information will be received incorrectly if that happens. Its content will be of poor quality.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed numerous aspects of daily life, and one field in which it has shown a notable impact is spelling and grammar correction. These technologies, driven by sophisticated machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) algorithms, have become essential tools for professionals, students, and writers alike, improving the accuracy and consistency of texts in Spanish. Let’s look at the main advantages of AI in spelling and grammar correction below.

Fast and Accurate Error Detection

One of the most apparent advantages of AI-based proofreading systems is their speed and accuracy in detecting spelling and grammatical errors. Traditional proofreading tools, such as dictionaries built into word processors, are limited to flagging basic spelling errors. However, AI models go further, detecting complex grammatical errors, such as incorrect use of verb tenses, gender and number agreement, improper punctuation, and syntactical errors.

For example, iScribo, our AI-based grammar proofreading tool, can identify poorly structured sentences or misused prepositions, which traditional proofreaders cannot do as effectively. Automating much of the editing process makes it easier to proofread more accurately and saves the user time.

Continuous Improvement Through Machine Learning

Another critical advantage of AI-based tools is that they are designed to learn and improve over time. As the tools are used and exposed to more data, their algorithms become more accurate and efficient. This means that a proofreading tool can better adapt to the complexities of the Spanish language, such as its regionalisms, dialect variations, and changes in spelling rules.

Machine learning allows these technologies to continually improve at identifying contextual errors. For example, if a word is spelt correctly but used incorrectly in a sentence, iScribo’s AI can point out that contextual error. This level of understanding and correction is beneficial for those who write in Spanish, a language rich in grammatical and lexical nuances.

Multilingual Assistance and Efficient Translation

AI-based proofreading tools offer a significant advantage for those who write in multiple languages ​​or are learning Spanish. They correct spelling and grammar mistakes, provide translation suggestions, and correct usage of idiomatic expressions. This is especially useful in today’s globalised world, where communicating effectively in multiple languages ​​is essential.

Additionally, these tools allow users to detect and correct common errors that often appear when translating from one language to another. For example, an AI system can automatically identify and correct inappropriate use of false friends or syntactical calques, helping to improve the overall quality of the text. This convenience can ease your writing process, knowing that these tools are there to assist you.

Better Adaptation to the User’s Style

Artificial intelligence can also learn and adapt to the user’s writing style, offering suggestions that respect the author’s tone and intent. This is especially valuable for professionals who must maintain a consistent and distinctive voice in their writing. For example, a journalist, lawyer, or academic can benefit from an AI proofreader who helps them maintain a formal and precise style. At the same time, a copywriter can use the tool to ensure that their writing is engaging and persuasive.

Language processing models that understand not only the grammar rules but also the context, purpose, and desired style of the text make this level of personalisation possible.

Accessibility and Timesaving

Another advantage of AI-based grammar and spelling checkers is their availability and accessibility. These tools are often integrated into popular writing platforms such as word processors, mobile apps, and online services, allowing users to access them anywhere and anytime. This is especially useful for professionals who need to edit documents quickly or for students working on essays or projects at the last minute.

The time savings are considerable, as AI automatically makes the corrections, saving the user from manually searching for each error. In addition, many of these tools explain the errors detected, which can help the user improve their understanding of Spanish grammar and spelling in the long run.

Reducing Human Bias in Proofreading

When proofreading texts manually, human proofreaders can make mistakes due to fatigue, haste, or unconscious bias. AI-based automatic proofreaders, on the other hand, ensure a more objective and consistent review. This is particularly useful in professional environments where accuracy and impartiality are essential.

Artificial intelligence has revolutionised the field of Spanish spelling and grammar proofreading, providing tools that detect errors quickly and accurately, improve over time, adapt to the user’s style, and offer greater accessibility. These technologies are helpful for professional students and anyone who wants to improve the quality of their Spanish writing. By integrating AI into the writing process, users can ensure more precise, coherent, and professionally presented texts while reducing the time and effort invested in manual proofreading. These are all significant advantages you can access using our iScribo platform.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

Categories
The language today

Chilean Spanish and its peculiarities

Have you ever been to Chile? Maybe not, but have you heard that in Chile, it seems like no one speaks Spanish because no one who speaks Spanish appears to understand them? Chilean Spanish is one of the most unique language varieties, standing out for its unique pronunciation, vocabulary, and idioms. Although it shares a joint base with the Spanish spoken in other Latin American countries and Spain, the Chilean variant has developed unique characteristics influenced by historical, geographical, and sociocultural factors. In this article, we will explore the main peculiarities of Chilean Spanish, from its distinctive intonation to its most popular colloquial expressions.

Pronunciation and Phonetics

One of the most notable aspects of Chilean Spanish is its pronunciation, which can challenge non-native speakers. Chileans speak quickly and often drop or soften certain consonants, especially at the end of words. A classic example is the disappearance of the “s” at the end of syllables or words, a phenomenon known as aspiration or elision of the “s.” Thus, “más o menos” can sound like “má o meno.” This trait affects comprehension for speakers of other Spanish varieties and contributes to Chilean Spanish’s musicality.

In addition, the Chilean accent is known for its rising intonation at the end of sentences, which gives the impression that sentences end in a question, even when they do not.

Vocabulary and Lexicon

Chilean Spanish has a vibrant and varied vocabulary, with many words and expressions not found in other Spanish variants. These words may be of Indigenous origin, adaptations of English words, or simply local inventions. For example, “pololo” and “polola” are colloquial terms for a boyfriend or girlfriend, respectively, a word not used in other Spanish-speaking countries.

Chileanisms, the words native to Chilean Spanish, are not just a part of the language but a part of daily life. Words like ‘fome’ (boring), ‘cachai’ (do you understand?), ‘al tiro’ (immediately), and ‘luca’ (a thousand pesos) are used in everyday conversations, reflecting the language’s creativity and adaptability in Chile.

Talking to Animals: Idioms and Colloquial Expressions

Using idioms and colloquial expressions is another distinctive feature of Chilean Spanish. Due to their symbolic meaning or specific context, many of these expressions are incomprehensible to Spanish speakers from other countries. “Pasarlo chancho” is an expression that means “to have a lot of fun,” whereas “chancho” literally means “pig.” These expressions highlight how Chilean Spanish uses humour and metaphor in daily communication. “Quedar o andar pato” means to be without money, and “chicotear los caracoles” means to rush someone to do something.

The verb “cachar” is extremely common and versatile in Chile, used as a synonym for understanding, grasping, or realising something. “Cachai” is a way of asking, “Do you understand?” and its use is so widespread that it has become a linguistic marker of Chilean Spanish. In addition, polite phrases and exclamations such as “po” (derived from “pues”) are characteristic of Chilean Spanish, added at the end of sentences to emphasise or soften the tone of the conversation. For example, when saying “sí, po.”

Historical and Cultural Influences

 The particularities of Chilean Spanish did not emerge out of nowhere. The country’s history and cultural influences have played a key role in shaping the language. The arrival of the Spanish conquistadors brought the language to Chilean territory, but the interaction with Indigenous languages, especially Mapudungún, left an indelible mark on the lexicon and phonetics. Words such as “kultrún” (ceremonial drum) and “guata” (belly) have Mapuche roots and are examples of this influence.

Furthermore, Chile’s geography, with its elongated, narrow shape nestled between the Andes Mountains range and the Pacific Ocean, has fostered a profound sense of cultural and linguistic identity distinctly reflected in the language. This relative geographic isolation has allowed Chilean Spanish to evolve uniquely, distinct from other Spanish-American dialects, and this is something to be appreciated.

Like all languages ​​and dialects, Chilean Spanish continues to evolve. Globalisation, migration, and access to international media are introducing new words and idioms, while some traditional terms may be falling into disuse. Nevertheless, the distinctive features of Chilean Spanish remain strong and are likely to continue to evolve and adapt, reflecting the dynamic Chilean society.

Chilean Spanish is not just a variety; it’s a rich and unique contribution to the Spanish language. Its phonetic, linguistic, and idiom features add colour and diversity to the Spanish-speaking world’s linguistic landscape, reflecting the Chilean people’s cultural and historical identity and enriching the global Spanish community.

Another distinctive feature of Chilean Spanish is the modern urban conjugation of the second person singular; thus, instead of saying ¿qué edad tienes? (How old are you?) one would informally ask ¿qué edad tenís? and instead of asking ¿cómo estás? (How are you?) one would ask ¿cómo estái?

With its fast rhythm, unique words, and melodic intonation, Chilean Spanish is a dynamic example of how a language can adapt and flourish in different cultural contexts.

Keep learning curiosities about the language and the Spanish language, visiting and reading the articles we publish weekly on the iScribo blog. If you want to improve your Spanish writing and correct a specific variant of this language, subscribe to our superb grammar checker. We are waiting for you!

GET IT NOW
Sign up now

Want more Spanish tips?

Get them direct to your inbox

Sign up for tips and tricks to perfect your Spanish writing skills. You’ll be writing like a native in no time.

Free Trial until 30 September 2021: Our subscription programme does not start until 1 October 2021. So, as long as you provide us with a feedback you can use our site for free until noon 30 September 2021 (GMT)