hermoso vs bello
While at a resort in Panama I saw a beautiful peacock in full plumage and while pointing to him remarked to the Argentenian woman sitting next to me "¡Que hermoso!". She understood no English whatsoever so was unable to explain her quick reply of "¡No,no,no,no. Que bello!" and that "Stupid Gringo" look she gave me. (of course I realize "gringo" is probably inappropriate but you get the picture) So can anyone explain my misuse?
6 Answers
In english we are inately familiar with the deeper conotations of synonymous adjectives and nouns. In Argentina, the difference a native speaker would notice between hermoso and bello would be similar to the difference a native English would notice between handsome and lovely. In this case the adjectives are chosen according to the level of personification given to the noun. The peacock could be understood as a masculine 'it' instead of 'he'.
I'm only guessing, but perhaps there, "hermoso" is more relevant in terms of human relationships, "bello" more objectified. In other words, you might have said, in effect, that the peacock was a real hottie. lol
I am as puzzled as Carmecin, Yesero and Marianne. In the context described, and in fact almost always, "hermoso" and "bello" are completely synonymous. Personally, I think of "hermoso(a)" as being closer to "gorgeous", and "bello(a)" being closer to "beautiful". But I wouldn't say that you would have been incorrect in calling the peacock one or the other.
From my research they both mean the same so why was she so insistant that I was wrong? Is it different in Argentina?
Bello y hermoso es lo mismo Para un hombre, empleamos en España, guapo y también atractivo....
Good question. I thought that they were synonymous.
