The phrase "a la vez" translates to "at the same time" in English, and it is used to express the occurrence of multiple actions or events simultaneously. It is a commonly used phrase in both oral and written Spanish, frequently appearing in various contexts ranging from casual conversation to formal writing.
"A la vez" is widely used in everyday Spanish and is significant in both oral and written forms, though it is particularly prevalent in spoken language.
"Ella quiere estudiar y trabajar a la vez."
"She wants to study and work at the same time."
"No puedes hablar y escuchar música a la vez."
"You cannot talk and listen to music at the same time."
"Quiero viajar por el mundo y aprender a la vez."
"I want to travel around the world and learn at the same time."
While "a la vez" itself is straightforward, it appears in various idiomatic expressions and phrases, often emphasizing simultaneity. Here are a few related usages:
"A la vez que te veo, te extraño."
"At the same time I see you, I miss you."
"Tengo que trabajar y cuidar a los niños a la vez."
"I have to work and take care of the kids at the same time."
"Hizo dos cosas a la vez: limpiar y cocinar."
"He did two things at the same time: cleaning and cooking."
"Se siente triste y feliz a la vez."
"She feels sad and happy at the same time."
"A la vez que crecemos, aprendemos cosas nuevas."
"At the same time we grow, we learn new things."
"Estar en dos lugares a la vez es imposible."
"Being in two places at the same time is impossible."
The phrase "a la vez" comes from the Spanish words "a" (to), "la" (the), and "vez" (time). "Vez" has its origins in the Latin word "vicis," meaning a turn or a change. Over time, the phrase has evolved to express the concept of simultaneity in actions.
In conclusion, "a la vez" is a versatile phrase that plays a significant role in the Spanish language, capturing the essence of simultaneity in actions and events, and it is widely understood and utilized across various contexts.