Spanish Snakes- "Por" and "Para"

17 July 2010

Spanish learner beware! As with all languages, Español has its hidden traps. Over the next month we will discuss some of the most common snakes that slide up and take us by our feet.

Snake 1: 'Por' and 'Para'

Today we discuss two translatations of the English word 'For'. 'Para' and 'Por' should not be confused as in Spanish their uses are very much specific.

When to use 'para':

1. To Express the idea of "in my opinion"
2. To Indicate the place toward which someone is going
3. To convey the time limit of a particular action

When using para, use para + infinitive: "in order to" and the expression of purpose.

 

When to use 'por':

1. To express the reason or motive for an action

2. To indicate a place where movement is occurring

3. When discussing periods of time: parts of the day (por = per)

4. To express price or an exchange

5. por + means of transportation (por = by)

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