a primera hora
Lemma Details
Translation: early in the morning; first thing in the morning; at the beginning; early on
Part of Speech: adverbial phrase
Etymology: This Spanish adverbial phrase combines 'a' (at), 'primera' (first, from Latin 'primarius'), and 'hora' (hour, from Latin 'hora'). The construction literally means 'at the first hour', referring to the earliest part of a day or period. The concept parallels the English phrase 'first thing' but specifically references time.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'primera' (first) and 'hora' (hour) as the 'prime hour' or 'primary time' of the day.
- Visualize the number '1' (primera) on a clock at the earliest hour of the morning.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'a primera hora' often refers to the beginning of the workday, which may vary by region. In Spain, this might be around 8-9 AM, while in Latin America it could be earlier. The phrase is commonly used when scheduling appointments or meetings.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'a primera hora' means 'early in the morning' or 'first thing', 'a buena hora' means 'at a good time' or 'at the right time', often used sarcastically to indicate something is happening too late.
Confused word:
¡A buena hora me avisas que la fiesta era formal!
You're telling me the party was formal at a fine time! (sarcastically)
Notes: 'A buena hora' often carries ironic connotations when something happens too late, while 'a primera hora' is straightforward about early timing.
Mnemonic: 'Primera' focuses on being first/early; 'buena' focuses on the quality of timing (good or appropriate).
Explanation: 'A primera hora' specifically refers to early morning or the beginning of a period, while 'a la hora' means 'on time' or 'at the time' (specified or agreed upon).
Confused word:
Llegó a la hora acordada.
He arrived at the agreed time.
Notes: 'A la hora' requires context about which specific time is being referenced, while 'a primera hora' inherently refers to an early time.
Mnemonic: 'Primera hora' = first hour (early); 'la hora' = the hour (specific time).