5.11. Use of Prepositions in Spanish: Common Mistakes in Using Prepositions

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Prepositions in Spanish are an essential part of grammar and, as such, require special attention in learning. They are short words that establish relationships between words in a sentence, whether indicating place, time, direction, cause, among other things. However, using prepositions in Spanish can be quite challenging for intermediate level learners, especially due to common mistakes that can occur. In this section, we'll explore some of these mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Confusion between "by" and "for"

Both prepositions can be translated as "para" in Portuguese, but are used in different contexts in Spanish. "By" is used to indicate cause, means, approximate place, exchange, period of time, among others. "For", on the other hand, indicates purpose, destination, specific time, opinion, among others. Therefore, it is important to understand the difference between the two to avoid mistakes. For example, "Estoy estudiando para el Examen" (I'm studying for the exam) and "Voy a la tienda por pan" (I'm going to the store to buy bread).

2. Incorrect use of "a"

The preposition "a" is used in Spanish to indicate direction, time, distance, among others. However, many students misuse it in situations where it is not needed. For example, "Voy a casa" (I'm going home) is correct, while "Voy a la casa" (I'm going home) is not, unless referring to a specific house. Therefore, it is important to understand when to use and when not to use "a".

3. Excessive use of "en"

"En" is a very versatile preposition in Spanish, used to indicate place, time, manner, among others. However, many students overuse it in situations where other prepositions would be more appropriate. For example, "Estoy en el trabajo" (I'm at work) is correct, but "Estoy en casa" (I'm at home) should be "Estoy en casa" (I'm at home). Therefore, it is important to learn how to use "en" correctly.

4. Confusion between "from" and "since"

Both prepositions can be translated as "de" in Portuguese, but are used in different contexts in Spanish. "From" is used to indicate origin, material, ownership, among others. "From", on the other hand, indicates the beginning of a period of time or space. Therefore, it is important to understand the difference between the two to avoid mistakes. For example, "Vengo de Brasil" (I come from Brazil) and "Trabajo Desde las ocho" (I've been working since eight).

5. Incorrect use of "con"

The preposition "con" is used in Spanish to indicate company, means, cause, among others. However, many students misuse it in situations where it is not needed or where another preposition would be more appropriate. For example, "Voy al cine con mis amigos" (I'm going to the movies with my friends) is correct, while "Estoy con hambre" (I'm hungry) should be "Tengo hambre" (I'm hungry). Therefore, it is important to learn how to use "con" correctly.

In conclusion, the correct use of prepositions in Spanish is crucial for effective and accurate communication. So it's important to pay attention to these common mistakes and work to avoid them. Remember that practice makes perfect, so keep practicing and improving your Spanish skills!

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675.12. Use of Prepositions in Spanish: Practical exercises in using prepositions