a fin de
Lemma Details
Translation: in order to; for the purpose of; with the aim of
Part of Speech: preposition
Etymology: This prepositional phrase is composed of three elements: 'a' (to), 'fin' (end/purpose), and 'de' (of). 'Fin' comes from Latin 'finis' meaning 'end, limit, boundary', which is also the root of English words like 'final', 'finish', and 'finite'. The construction literally means 'to the end of' but is used to express purpose or intention.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'fin' as 'finish' - you're doing something to finish or complete a purpose.
- Remember 'a fin de' as 'to the end of' which helps convey the idea of purpose or goal.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is a standard formal expression used in both written and spoken Spanish, particularly in academic, legal, and business contexts when explaining the purpose of actions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'A fin de' means 'in order to' and introduces a purpose, while 'al fin' means 'finally' or 'at last' and refers to something happening after a long wait or delay.
Confused word:
Al fin llegó el autobús después de una hora de espera.
The bus finally arrived after an hour of waiting.
Notes: 'A fin de' is always followed by an infinitive verb or 'que' + subjunctive, while 'al fin' typically stands alone or is followed by a complete clause.
Mnemonic: 'A fin de' has 'de' which points to a future purpose, while 'al fin' refers to something finally happening (at the end).
Explanation: 'A fin de' expresses purpose (in order to), while 'por fin' expresses relief that something has finally happened (at last, finally).
This word:
Compré este libro a fin de mejorar mi español.
I bought this book in order to improve my Spanish.
Confused word:
¡Por fin terminé mi tesis!
I finally finished my thesis!
Notes: 'Por fin' typically appears at the beginning of sentences or clauses and expresses completion, while 'a fin de' introduces a purpose clause.
Mnemonic: Think of 'por fin' as 'phew, finally!' expressing relief, while 'a fin de' is about aiming toward a goal.