Spanish Conversation · Level 159
30 words
Spanish word
tabú
Pronunciation
IPA/taˈβu/
Meaning
- masculine nountaboo
Example
En muchas culturas, la comida de ciertos animales es un tabú.
In many cultures, the food of certain animals is taboo.
More examples
En la discusión pública, muchas personas intentan romper el tabú sobre la salud mental.
In public discussion, many people try to break the taboo surrounding mental health.
Core concept
A person covering their mouth amid a silent group.
Common phrases
romper un tabú
break the taboo
tabú social
social taboo
tema tabú
taboo topic
Similar words
prohibición: An explicit ban or prohibition imposed by law, rules, or clear social edict.
convención: A customary expectation or social norm that shapes accepted behavior without formal rules.
secreto: A fact or detail intentionally concealed from the public or most people.
Definition in Spanish
Restricción social que impide nombrar o tratar ciertos asuntos, palabras o prácticas por considerarlos impropios, peligrosos o sagrados.
Word origin
The Spanish tabú comes from English taboo, which in turn derives from Polynesian tabu/tapu where the term marked something sacred and off-limits.
Usage tips
- Masculine noun: use el tabú, and common verbs and phrases include romper un tabú and tema tabú, while casual speech often skirts the subject.