Spanish word

etapa

Pronunciation

IPA/eˈtapa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounstage

Example

Estamos en una etapa importante.

We are at an important stage.

Illustration for etapa (stage)

More examples

En esta etapa conviene priorizar objetivos pequeños.

At this stage, it is advisable to prioritize small goals.

Core concept

A marked segment on a timeline between two milestones.

Common phrases

  • etapa de aprendizaje

    learning stage

  • en esta etapa

    at this stage

  • etapa inicial

    initial stage

Similar words

fase: One stage within a sequence, marked by particular activities or goals.
época: Extended era distinguished by characteristic trends or widespread features.
periodo: Block of time regarded as a coherent period, typically with a clear start and end.

Definition in Spanish

Periodo definido dentro de una secuencia de pasos que señala una fase concreta en un proceso o ciclo vital.

Word origin

The Spanish word is borrowed from French étape (Old French estape) and ultimately from a Germanic word meaning 'step' or 'staging post', with the sense extended to a temporal phase in a process.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English stage as a platform, etapa names a period or phase in a process or life and commonly appears with estar en or pasar por una etapa.

Other meanings

  • phasenoun
  • periodnoun

Word lists with this word