a solas
Lemma Details
Translation: alone; in private; by oneself; in solitude
Part of Speech: adverbial phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the preposition 'a' (to, at) with the plural form of 'solo' (alone), which comes from Latin 'solus' (alone, only). The English word 'solo' shares this Latin root. The plural form 'solas' in this fixed expression emphasizes the state of solitude or privacy.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Necesito hablar contigo a solas.
I need to speak with you in private.
Prefiero trabajar a solas.
I prefer to work alone.
Quiero estar a solas con mis pensamientos.
I want to be alone with my thoughts.
Los dejaron a solas para que pudieran resolver sus problemas.
They were left alone so they could resolve their problems.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'solo' (alone) with an 'a' in front to remember 'a solas' means 'alone' or 'in private'
- Connect it to English 'solitary' - both refer to being alone
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in Spanish to indicate private conversations or activities done without others present. It often implies a deliberate seeking of privacy for intimate or confidential matters.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Solo' is an adjective meaning 'alone' that agrees with the noun it modifies, while 'a solas' is a fixed adverbial phrase that describes how an action is performed (in private or alone).
Confused word:
Estoy solo en casa.
I am alone at home.
Notes: 'A solas' is invariable, while 'solo' changes form (solo, sola, solos, solas) to match the noun it describes.
Mnemonic: 'A solas' has an 'a' for 'action' - it describes how you do something.
Explanation: While both mean 'in private,' 'a solas' emphasizes being physically alone or without others present, whereas 'en privado' focuses more on the confidential nature of something.
Notes: 'A solas' is more about physical isolation, while 'en privado' is more about confidentiality.
Mnemonic: 'A solas' focuses on solitude; 'en privado' focuses on privacy.