Por y para en español: la diferencia (videolección)

Por and para are two of the most confusing words for students of Spanish. This lesson explains their main uses and the differences between them.

Do you know how to use this two particles and the differences between them? We will teach you that in this free Spanish lesson brought to you by Tilde Madrid Spanish school in Madrid

Key points

Para expresses purpose and destination: Estudio para trabajar en España. Salgo para Madrid.
Para also marks a deadline and the person who receives something: Es para el lunes. Este regalo es para ti.
Por expresses cause: Lo hago por ti. Cerrado por vacaciones.
Por also expresses movement through a place, means and exchange: Paseo por el parque. Hablamos por teléfono. Lo compré por diez euros.

Frequent doubts

Gracias por or gracias para?

Always gracias por: Gracias por tu ayuda. Por expresses the reason why you are grateful.

Is it por la mañana or para la mañana?

Por la mañana, por la tarde, por la noche, to say when something happens. Para la mañana means by or for the morning, as a deadline.

How can I tell purpose from cause?

Para looks forward to a goal (Trabajo para viajar); por looks back at a reason (Viajo por trabajo).

Part of Spanish Sessions, the YouTube channel of the teachers at Tilde Madrid — more than 3 million views.

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Key points

Frequent doubts

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