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cantar — meaning in English: sing

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informal very common
Usage
Native Catalan speakers frequently use 'cantar' in various informal settings, such as at family gatherings, parties, or festivals, where singing is a common form of entertainment. It is also used in educational contexts, like music classes, where students practice singing songs in Catalan.
Synonyms & nuances
'Cantar' is often used in a more general sense of singing, whereas 'entonar' refers specifically to the act of singing in tune. You would choose 'cantar' when talking about singing in a broader or more casual context, whereas 'entonar' would be reserved for discussions about musical accuracy.
Culture
'Cantar' has its roots in the Latin word 'cantare,' which means 'to sing.' In Catalan culture, singing is not just a pastime but an integral part of celebrations, such as the famous 'Sardana' dance, where participants often sing traditional songs. The act of singing is so beloved that there are even competitions dedicated to finding the best singers in Catalonia.
FAQ
Q.How do you conjugate 'cantar' in the present tense?
'Cantar' is a regular -ar verb. In the present tense, it conjugates as: jo canto (I sing), tu cantes (you sing), ell/ella canta (he/she sings), nosaltres cantem (we sing), vosaltres canteu (you all sing), and ells/elles canten (they sing).
Q.Can 'cantar' be used in a metaphorical sense?
Yes, 'cantar' can be used metaphorically in Catalan. For example, you might hear someone say 'cantar victòria' (to sing victory) when celebrating a triumph. This shows the versatility of the word beyond just musical contexts.
Q.What are common phrases or expressions using 'cantar'?
One common expression is 'cantar a cor' which means to sing in unison. Another is 'cantar les quaranta' which refers to someone who reveals secrets or tells tales, often in a playful manner.
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Catalan Vocabulary