vs
QUICK ANSWER
"La paloma" is a form of "paloma", a noun which is often translated as "dove". "La hormiga" is a form of "hormiga", a noun which is often translated as "ant". Learn more about the difference between "la paloma" and "la hormiga" below.
la paloma(
pah
-
loh
-
mah
)A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (animal)
a. dove (small, white variety)
Para muchos, la paloma es un símbolo de paz y amor.For many, the dove is a symbol of peace and love.
b. pigeon (big, grey variety)
Cuando el muchacho tiró las semillas, todas las palomas se juntaron en masa.When the boy threw the seeds, all of the pigeons came en masse.
a. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
Mi ex novio era una paloma. Necesito alguien más fogoso.My ex-boyfriend was too mild-mannered. I need someone fierier.
Ella se queja de que su jefe es una paloma y necesita demostrar más liderazgo.She complains that her boss is too docile and needs to demonstrate more leadership.
a. dove
Las palomas del Congreso prefieren explorar todas las opciones diplomáticas.The doves in Congress prefer to explore all of the diplomatic options.
la hormiga(
ohr
-
mee
-
gah
)A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (insect)
a. ant
No me gustan los picnics porque las hormigas siempre encuentran la forma de llegar a mi comida.I don't like picnics because ants always find a way to get to my food.
2. (person)
a. hard worker
De pobre a rica en un año, ¡es una verdadera hormiga!From rags to riches in one year; she really is a hard worker!
