Overview
The Spanish word 'baja' is a versatile adjective that primarily means 'short' or 'low' when referring to height, position, intensity, or degree. As a feminine singular adjective, it agrees with feminine nouns. Its masculine singular form is 'bajo', and the plural forms are 'bajas' (feminine) and 'bajos' (masculine).
Beyond its literal meaning of physical height, 'baja' extends to describe various conditions. For instance, 'música baja' refers to low-volume music, and 'precios bajos' indicates low prices. It can also describe a lack of quality or status, as in 'baja calidad' (low quality) or 'baja autoestima' (low self-esteem).
Furthermore, 'baja' is integral to several common idiomatic expressions. 'Dar de baja' is a frequently used phrase meaning 'to cancel,' 'to unsubscribe,' or 'to discharge' someone from a service or group. For example, 'dar de baja una suscripción' means to cancel a subscription, and 'dar de baja a un empleado' means to dismiss an employee. Another important expression is 'estar de baja,' which means 'to be on leave,' typically sick leave ('estar de baja por enfermedad') or maternity leave ('estar de baja por maternidad'). This phrase signifies a temporary absence from work or duties. Understanding these idiomatic uses is crucial for grasping the full scope of 'baja' in Spanish communication. The context almost always clarifies the precise meaning, whether referring to a physical attribute, a state of being, or an administrative action.
Exemples
La mesa es muy baja.
The table is very low.
Tiene la moral baja.
She has low morale.
Collocations courantes
Souvent confondu avec
verb 'to go down' or 'to lower'
Modèles grammaticaux
Comment l'utiliser
The word 'baja' is an adjective and must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For example, for a short woman, you would say 'una mujer baja,' and for short women, 'mujeres bajas.' If referring to a short man, the masculine form 'bajo' would be used ('un hombre bajo'). It's important to differentiate its use from 'pequeña,' which also means 'small' but often implies size rather than just height. While 'baja' specifically refers to a lack of height, 'pequeña' can describe something small in overall dimension. Context is key to choosing the correct adjective. Additionally, 'baja' can be part of many idiomatic expressions, such as 'dar de baja' (to discharge or cancel) or 'estar de baja' (to be on leave, often sick leave), which have meanings beyond the literal translation of 'short' or 'low.' Always consider the broader phrase when encountering 'baja' to ensure accurate understanding.
Sometimes confused with 'bajo' (masculine form) or 'bajar' (to go down, to lower). Remember 'baja' as an adjective refers to a characteristic, while 'bajar' is a verb indicating action. Also, ensure gender agreement: 'baja' for feminine nouns, 'bajo' for masculine nouns.
Origine du mot
From Vulgar Latin *bassus, from Latin bassus 'short, low'.
Contexte culturel
In Spanish-speaking cultures, the word 'baja' (feminine form of 'bajo') directly translates to 'short' or 'low.' Its usage extends beyond just physical height, often describing the level or intensity of various things. For instance, 'marea baja' refers to low tide, and 'voz baja' means a low voice. Culturally, there isn't a strong positive or negative connotation associated with being 'baja' in height; it's simply a descriptive adjective. However, societal ideals of beauty can sometimes subtly influence perceptions, much like in many other cultures, where certain heights might be considered more desirable in specific contexts. The term can also be used in a more abstract sense, such as 'baja autoestima' (low self-esteem) or 'bajas temperaturas' (low temperatures), demonstrating its versatility in describing diminished states.
Astuce mémo
Think of 'baja' as 'below' or 'base' to remember its meaning of 'low' or 'short'.
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Exemples
2 sur 2La mesa es muy baja.
The table is very low.
Tiene la moral baja.
She has low morale.
Contenu associé
Expressions liées
Vocabulaire associé
Plus de mots sur general
a causa de
A2For the reason of; owing to.
a condición de que
B2On condition that, provided that, or given that.
a dónde
A1To what place or destination?
a lo mejor
A2Maybe; perhaps.
a menos que
B1Unless.
a no ser que
B2Unless; should it not be that.
a pesar de
B1In spite of; despite.
a_pesar_de
B2In spite of; notwithstanding; despite.
a propósito
B2By the way, on purpose; incidentally; or intentionally.
a raíz de
B2As a result of; following directly from.
