a mitad de camino
Lemma Details
Translation: halfway; midway; in the middle of the journey; at the halfway point
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This Spanish phrase combines several elements: 'a' (at/to), 'mitad' (half, from Latin 'medietas'), 'de' (of), and 'camino' (road/path/way, from Latin 'camminus'). The expression literally means 'at half of the road' and has evolved to describe being at an intermediate point between two locations or states.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Nos encontraremos a mitad de camino entre Madrid y Barcelona.
We'll meet halfway between Madrid and Barcelona.
El proyecto está a mitad de camino de ser completado.
The project is halfway to being completed.
No podemos detenernos ahora, estamos a mitad de camino.
We can't stop now, we're halfway there.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'mitad' as 'mid' + 'at' rearranged, helping you remember it means 'halfway'
- Visualize standing on a road with equal distance behind and ahead of you
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is used both literally to describe physical location and figuratively to describe progress toward a goal. It's a common expression in everyday Spanish conversation and writing.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'a mitad de camino' means 'halfway', 'en camino' means 'on the way' or 'coming', indicating movement toward a destination rather than a position at the midpoint.
Notes: 'A mitad de camino' is about position/progress, while 'en camino' is about movement toward a destination.
Mnemonic: 'A mitad' contains the word for 'half' (mitad), while 'en camino' just indicates being on the path.
Explanation: 'A mitad de camino' refers to position or progress, while 'a medio hacer' specifically refers to something that is half-done or incomplete.
Confused word:
La casa está a medio hacer.
The house is half-built.
Notes: Both phrases involve the concept of being halfway, but in different contexts.
Mnemonic: 'Camino' refers to a path or journey, while 'hacer' means 'to do' or 'to make'.