Cognates and Faux Amis (False Friends)
What does “embarazada” mean in Spanish?
Pregnant
What is the capital of Spain?
Madrid
What Spanish dish is made with rice, saffron, and seafood or meat?
Paella
Which Spanish artist painted Guernica?
Pablo Picasso
Who directed Under the Same Moon (La misma luna)?
Patricia Riggen
In French, what does “actuellement” mean?
Currently
What river runs through Paris?
Seine
What French pastry is crescent-shaped and buttery?
Croissant
What is the French past tense formed with “avoir” or “être” called?
Passé composé
What French film won Best Picture at the Oscars in 2012?
The Artist
What does “librería” mean in Spanish as well as “librairie” in French?
Bookstore (for both)
What mountain range separates France and Spain?
Pyrenees
What cold Spanish soup is made with tomatoes and vegetables?
Gazpacho
What mood is used for doubt or emotion in both Spanish and French?
Subjunctive
What Spanish Netflix show features a heist at the Royal Mint?
Money Heist (La casa de papel)
What does “assister” mean in French?
To attend
What is the largest Spanish-speaking country by land area?
Argentina
What is the name of the French dish of snails?
Escargots
What does the Spanish verb “ser” generally describe vs. “estar”?
Permanent traits (ser) vs. temporary states (estar)
What is the name of the famous French film festival held annually?
Cannes Film Festival
What does “ropa” mean in Spanish, and why might it confuse French speakers?
Clothing; sounds like French “robe” (dress)
What is the capital of Mexico?
Mexico City
What Spanish term refers to small plates often shared socially?
Tapas
In French, what does adding “-ment” to an adjective usually create?
An adverb
Which Mexican film won the Oscar for Best Director for Alfonso Cuarón in 2019?
Roma