a pesar de (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Phrase (Prepositional Phrase)

Phonetic Transcription

/a peˈs̺aɾ ðe/

Translation Options

• despite
• in spite of

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "a pesar de" is used to express contrast or concession, similar to the English phrase "despite" or "in spite of." It can be used in various contexts to indicate that something happens or is true regardless of a particular obstacle or contrary situation.

• Frequency of Use: This phrase is commonly used in both oral and written forms of the Spanish language, found often in literature, news articles, and everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

1. a pesar de la lluvia, decidimos salir de casa.

2. Despite the rain, we decided to leave the house.

3. a pesar de sus problemas, siempre tiene una sonrisa en la cara.

4. In spite of his problems, he always has a smile on his face.

5. María llegó tarde a pesar de haber salido temprano.

6. María arrived late despite having left early.

Idiomatic Expressions

The phrase "a pesar de" is an important part of several idiomatic expressions in Spanish.

1. A pesar de las adversidades
2. Despite the adversities
3. Ejemplo: A pesar de las adversidades, logró terminar su carrera.

4. Despite the adversities, he managed to finish his degree.

5. A pesar de todo

6. In spite of everything
7. Ejemplo: A pesar de todo, seguimos adelante con nuestros planes.

8. In spite of everything, we continue with our plans.

9. A pesar de lo que digan

10. Despite what they say
11. Ejemplo: A pesar de lo que digan, seguiré luchando por lo que creo.

12. Despite what they say, I will continue fighting for what I believe in.

13. A pesar de la distancia

14. Despite the distance
15. Ejemplo: A pesar de la distancia, nunca dejaré de pensar en ti.
16. Despite the distance, I will never stop thinking of you.

Etymology

The phrase "a pesar de" is composed of: - "a": a preposition in Spanish meaning "to" or "at." - "pesar": a verb meaning "to weigh," derived from Latin "pensare." - "de": a preposition meaning "of."

The expression has evolved to take on a metaphorical meaning, indicating that something is "weighed down" or "heavier" than usual, thus leading to the concept of overcoming or dealing with that weight or burden.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - en contra de (against) - aunque (although)

Antonyms: - gracias a (thanks to)

This structured information about "a pesar de" provides a thorough understanding of its meaning and usage in Spanish.