presto
lend
The Spanish word "presto" is an adverb or adjective that primarily means "quickly" or "promptly" when used as an adverb. It implies doing something with speed or without delay.
Meaning and Usage
-
As an adverb:
It means "quickly," "right away," or "promptly."
Example:
"Voy a hacerlo presto." – "I am going to do it quickly." -
As an adjective (less common in Spanish, but borrowed from Italian):
Sometimes used in musical contexts meaning "lively, fast" (from Italian usage). For example: in musical directions, "Presto" means to play fast.
Parts and Origin
- Derived from the Latin presto, meaning "at hand," "quick," or "forthwith."
- In Spanish, it retains this sense of immediacy or promptness.
Synonyms
- Rápido (quickly, fast)
- De inmediato (immediately)
- Pronto (soon, quickly)
- En seguida (right away)
Antonyms
- Despacio (slowly)
- Tarde (late)
- Lentamente (slowly)
In summary, presto in Spanish is primarily used to describe actions done quickly or without delay. It can also have a musical usage referring to playing a piece fast, especially when borrowed directly from Italian musical terminology.
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Examples
Siempre le presto mis apuntes a mi amigo.verb
I always lend my notes to my friend.
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