a través de
Lemma Details
Translation: through; across; by means of; via
Part of Speech: preposition
Etymology: This prepositional phrase comes from the combination of the preposition 'a' (to), the noun 'través' (which derives from Latin 'transversus' meaning 'turned across'), and the preposition 'de' (of). The Latin 'transversus' is also the origin of English words like 'traverse' and 'transverse'. The construction literally means 'by way of crossing' or 'in a crossing manner'.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'traverse' in English, which means to cross or go through something.
- Visualize crossing 'a' space to reach the other side, going 'through' it.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This preposition is extremely common in both written and spoken Spanish. It's used in literal spatial contexts as well as figurative ones, such as discussing how information or ideas are transmitted.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'por' can sometimes be translated as 'through', 'a través de' specifically indicates physical movement through a space or medium, whereas 'por' has many more uses including cause, duration, and exchange.
Confused word:
Lo hice por ti.
I did it for you.
Notes: 'A través de' is more specific to the concept of 'through' in a physical or metaphorical sense, while 'por' has a much broader range of meanings.
Mnemonic: 'A través de' involves crossing or traversing, while 'por' is more about reasons or exchanges.
Explanation: 'Mediante' means 'by means of' or 'through' but focuses more on the method or instrument used, while 'a través de' can refer to physical movement through space as well as methods.
This word:
La información se transmite a través de internet.
Information is transmitted through the internet.
Confused word:
Resolvieron el problema mediante negociaciones.
They solved the problem by means of negotiations.
Notes: Both can be used for abstract concepts, but 'a través de' is more versatile and can be used for physical spaces.
Mnemonic: Think of 'mediante' as emphasizing the means or method, while 'a través de' emphasizes the path or channel.