Introduction to Spanish Prepositions: En, A, De, Con, Sin

Prepositions help establish relationships between words, indicating location, direction, time, possession, and more. 

In this article, we will delve into five commonly used Spanish prepositions: en, a, de, con, and sin. 

We will explore their meanings, provide usage examples with basic vocabulary, and offer practice exercises to solidify your understanding. Let’s begin!

En (In, On, At):

The preposition “en” is incredibly versatile and can be translated as “in,” “on,” or “at” in English, depending on the context. Here are some common ways “en” is used:

• Location: When referring to being in a place or location.
  Example: Vivo en España. (I live in Spain.)

• Time: Used to express a specific time or duration.
  Example: Llegaré en cinco minutos. (I will arrive in five minutes.)

• Means of Transportation: Describing the mode of transportation used.
  Example: Viajamos en avión. (We travel by plane.)

• Language or Material: Indicating the language spoken or the material something is made of.
  Hablo en español. (I speak in Spanish.)
  La mesa está hecha en madera. (The table is made of wood.)

A (To, At):

The preposition “a” primarily translates to “to” or “at” in English and is often used in the following ways:

• Destination: Indicating movement towards a specific location.
  Example: Voy a la playa. (I’m going to the beach.)

• Time: When expressing a specific time.
  Example: Llegué a las 9 de la mañana. (I arrived at 9 a.m.)

• Indirect Object: Identifying the recipient or beneficiary of an action.
  Example: Regalé flores a mi madre. (I gave flowers to my mother.)

De (Of, From)

The preposition “de” translates to “of” or “from” in English. It has various uses, including:

• Origin: Denoting where someone or something is from.
  Example: Soy de México. (I am from Mexico.)

• Possession: Indicating ownership or possession.
  Example: El libro de Juan. (Juan’s book.)

• Material: Describing the material something is made of.
  Example: Una taza de café. (A cup of coffee.)

Con (With):

The preposition “con” translates to “with” in English and is used in the following ways:

• Company: Describing being in the presence of someone.
  Example: Salgo con mis amigos. (I’m going out with my friends.)

• Instrument or Tool: Indicating the means or tool used.
  Example: Corto el pan con un cuchillo. (I cut the bread with a knife.

• Manner: Expressing the way or method something is done.
  Example: Lo hizo con cuidado. (He did it with care.)

Sin (Without):

The preposition “sin” translates to “without” in English. It is used to express the absence or lack of something. For example:

• Absence: Indicating the lack of a particular thing.
  Example: Voy al trabajo sin dinero. (I go to work without money.)

• Condition: Expressing a state of being without something.
  Example: No puedo vivir sin ti. (I can’t live without you.)

• Exception: Describing an action or situation that occurs without a specific condition.
  Example: Lo hizo sin ayuda. (He did it without help.)

In this article, we have explored five essential Spanish prepositions: en, a, de, con, and sin.

Understanding their meanings and usage patterns will enhance your ability to express yourself accurately in Spanish. 

Remember to practice these prepositions in context, using vocabulary relevant to your daily life. With time and practice, you will become more comfortable incorporating these prepositions into your Spanish conversations.

¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Check out our series of Complete Spanish Grammar articles – everything you’ll ever need to know about Spanish grammar.

Or, learn more about LingoToGo here.

(One Week Free only available to students in the Americas and Europe. If you’re outside these regions, check out our offers here.)