a pie
Lemma Details
Translation: on foot; by foot; walking
Part of Speech: adverbial phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the preposition 'a' (to, by) with the noun 'pie' (foot). The construction follows a common pattern in Spanish where 'a' + noun creates an adverbial expression indicating manner or means. The word 'pie' comes from Latin 'pes, pedis' (foot), which is also the root of English words like 'pedestrian', 'pedal', and 'impede'.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Voy a la escuela a pie todos los días.
I go to school on foot every day.
Prefiero ir a pie porque es más saludable.
I prefer to go on foot because it's healthier.
El centro histórico se recorre mejor a pie.
The historic center is best toured on foot.
Tuvimos que continuar a pie cuando se averió el coche.
We had to continue on foot when the car broke down.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'pie' as 'foot' and 'a pie' as 'by foot' - imagine walking on your feet.
- Connect 'pie' with 'pedestrian' - both relate to feet and walking.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In many Spanish-speaking countries, walking is a common mode of transportation in urban areas. The phrase 'a pie' is frequently used in giving directions or describing how someone travels.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'A pie' means 'on foot' or 'by foot', while 'al pie' means 'at the foot of' or 'at the base of' something.
Notes: 'Al pie' is often followed by 'de' to form the expression 'al pie de' (at the foot of).
Mnemonic: 'A pie' is about movement (walking), while 'al pie' is about position (at the base).
Explanation: 'A pie' means 'on foot' (mode of transportation), while 'de pie' means 'standing up' (position of the body).
Confused word:
Estuve de pie durante toda la ceremonia.
I was standing throughout the entire ceremony.
Notes: 'De pie' refers to a standing position, not a method of travel.
Mnemonic: Think of 'a pie' as movement with feet, and 'de pie' as the position of being on your feet.