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català
estranger — meaning in English: foreigner
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foreigner
sempre
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estranger
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inexorable
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neutral
common
Usage
In everyday conversations, native Catalan speakers use 'estranger' when referring to someone from another country, often in contexts like travel, immigration, or tourism. For instance, you might hear this word during a discussion about a holiday in Barcelona or when talking about foreign students in a local university.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'estranger' specifically denotes a foreigner, the word 'foraster' is often used in rural contexts to describe someone from another part of Catalonia. 'Estranger' carries a broader implication of someone from outside the nation's borders, making it the go-to term in urban and multicultural settings.
Culture
'Estranger' is derived from the Latin word 'extraneus', meaning 'outside' or 'strange'. This reflects a historical context where the unfamiliar was often viewed with curiosity and caution, particularly during periods of political and social upheaval in Catalonia. Today, the term can evoke a sense of welcoming or hospitality, especially in a region known for its vibrant culture and diverse influences.
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