How Do You Spell CARACAZO?

Pronunciation: [kˌaɹɐkˈɑːzə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The word "caracazo" is a Spanish term that refers to a particular event that took place in Venezuela in 1989. This term is spelled phonetically as /ka.ɾaˈka.so/, using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The "c" is pronounced as a soft "k" sound, and the "z" is pronounced as an "s" sound, as is typical in Spanish. The stress falls on the third syllable, and the final "o" is pronounced with a short "o" sound. Overall, this spelling captures the correct pronunciation of the term.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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CARACAZO Meaning and Definition

  1. "Caracazo" is a Spanish word that originated from Venezuela and refers to a violent uprising or protest that occurred on February 27 and 28, 1989, in the country's capital city of Caracas. The term itself combines the word "Caracas," which is the capital, with "zapo," a colloquial expression meaning a big commotion or disturbance. Therefore, "caracazo" can be interpreted as the "big commotion in Caracas" or the "Caracas uprising."

    During the caracazo, the Venezuelan population, particularly the lower-income sectors, took to the streets to protest against the implementation of neoliberal economic policies imposed by the government of President Carlos Andrés Pérez. These policies involved the removal of fuel subsidies and the subsequent hike in gasoline prices, doubling the cost of public transportation fares, and increasing the prices of basic necessities.

    The protests quickly escalated into widespread violence, looting, and arson, with estimates suggesting that hundreds, if not thousands, of people lost their lives during the unrest. The caracazo is often seen as a watershed moment in Venezuelan history, representing the awakening of social and economic inequalities that had long been simmering under the surface.

    Since its occurrence, "caracazo" has become a term used to describe similar social uprisings in other countries experiencing similar economic grievances and government repression.

Etymology of CARACAZO

The word "caracazo" is derived from the combination of two words: "Caracas" and "azo".

"Caracas" is the capital city of Venezuela and is located in the northern region of the country. The name "Caracas" itself has indigenous roots and originally referred to a species of bird commonly found in the area. Over time, it became the name of the city.

The second part of the word, "azo", is a suffix in Spanish that is used to indicate a sudden, forceful, or often violent event. It is derived from the Latin word "actus", meaning "act" or "action". When added to the end of a word, it conveys the idea of a strong impact or blow.

Therefore, when combined, "caracazo" refers to the "sudden, forceful, or violent event" that took place in Caracas.