False friends 6

False friends are words in two languages that look or sound similar but have different meanings. Here are some more examples of the most common mistakes:

1. False friend: come true

Correct meaning: hacerse realidad, cumplirse

Example: Espero que todos tus sueños se hagan realidad.

I hope all your dreams come true.

2. False friend: be late

Correct meaning: llegar tarde

Example: María siempre llega tarde a su trabajo.

María is always late to her work.

3. False friend: translation

Correct meaning: traducción

Example: Esta traducción no es fácil de entender.

This translation is not easy to understand.

*Note: according to RAE “traslación” also means “traducción a una lengua distinta” but , actually it´s not common to use this word with that meaning.

4. False friend: ask for permission

Correct meaning: pedir permiso

Example: Si quieres venir con nosotros, pide permiso a tus padres primero.

If you want to come with us, ask your parent´s permission first.