a disposición
Lemma Details
Translation: at one's disposal; available; at the disposal of
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the preposition 'a' (from Latin 'ad' meaning 'to' or 'toward') with 'disposición' (from Latin 'dispositio' meaning 'arrangement' or 'management'). The English cognate 'disposition' shares the same Latin root, though in Spanish the phrase specifically conveys availability or being ready for use.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Estoy a tu disposición para cualquier consulta.
I am at your disposal for any questions.
El hotel pone a disposición de los huéspedes una piscina climatizada.
The hotel makes a heated swimming pool available to guests.
Los documentos están a disposición del público.
The documents are available to the public.
Me pongo a su disposición para lo que necesite.
I put myself at your disposal for whatever you need.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'disposition' in English as your 'arrangement' or 'tendency' - similarly, 'a disposición' means something is arranged to be available for you.
- Visualize items being 'disposed' or arranged for your use - they're at your disposal.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in service settings, business communications, and official documents to indicate availability of resources, services, or assistance.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'a disposición' means 'at one's disposal' or 'available', 'a discreción' means 'at one's discretion' or 'as much as desired'.
Notes: Both phrases begin with 'a' and have similar sounds, but they convey different concepts of availability versus choice.
Mnemonic: 'Disposición' relates to 'disposal' (availability), while 'discreción' relates to 'discretion' (choice or judgment).
Explanation: 'A disposición' indicates something is available for use, while 'en disposición' often suggests being in a state or condition ready to do something.
Notes: The preposition makes a significant difference in meaning between these otherwise similar phrases.
Mnemonic: Think of 'a disposición' as 'at disposal' (available now) and 'en disposición' as 'in the disposition/state' (ready or prepared).