a lo mejor
Lemma Details
Translation: maybe; perhaps; possibly
Part of Speech: adverbial phrase
Etymology: This adverbial phrase is composed of three elements: the preposition 'a' (to), the definite article 'lo' (the, in its neuter form), and the adjective 'mejor' (best). Literally, it translates to 'to the best', but its actual meaning evolved to express possibility or uncertainty. The word 'mejor' comes from Latin 'melior' (better), which is related to English words like 'ameliorate' (to make better).
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'at the best' (a lo mejor) as 'at best, it might happen' to remember it means 'maybe'
- Imagine someone saying 'At best (a lo mejor), I'll arrive by 8' to express uncertainty
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is very commonly used in everyday Spanish conversation to express possibility. It's slightly less formal than 'quizás' or 'tal vez' and is particularly common in spoken Spanish across all Spanish-speaking countries.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'A lo mejor' is an adverbial phrase meaning 'maybe/perhaps', while 'lo mejor' means 'the best thing' or 'the best'.
Confused word:
Lo mejor es esperar.
The best thing is to wait.
Notes: The addition of the preposition 'a' completely changes the meaning from a superlative ('the best') to an expression of possibility.
Mnemonic: Remember that 'a lo mejor' has the preposition 'a' at the beginning, which transforms the meaning from 'the best' to 'perhaps'.
Explanation: 'A lo mejor' expresses possibility, while 'mejor' alone is an adjective or adverb meaning 'better'.
Confused word:
Este restaurante es mejor.
This restaurant is better.
Notes: The word 'mejor' on its own is a comparative form, while 'a lo mejor' is a fixed expression with a completely different meaning.
Mnemonic: Think of 'a lo mejor' as a complete phrase that must stay together to mean 'perhaps', while 'mejor' alone just means 'better'.