con tal de que
Lemma Details
Translation: provided that; as long as; on condition that
Part of Speech: conjunction
Etymology: This conjunction is formed from several Spanish elements: 'con' (with), 'tal' (such), 'de' (of), and 'que' (that). The construction literally means 'with such that' but functions as a conditional conjunction expressing a requirement or condition.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Te prestaré el dinero con tal de que me lo devuelvas la próxima semana.
I'll lend you the money provided that you return it to me next week.
Puedes usar mi coche con tal de que lo llenes de gasolina.
You can use my car as long as you fill it with gas.
Aceptaré el trabajo con tal de que mejoren el salario.
I'll accept the job on condition that they improve the salary.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'con tal de que' as 'with such a deal that' - you're establishing the terms of a deal or agreement.
- Remember it as 'with this tale that must be true' - the condition that must be met for the main clause to happen.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This conjunction is commonly used in both formal and informal Spanish to establish conditions. It's an important construction in legal contexts, agreements, and everyday conditional statements.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Con tal de que' introduces a condition clause (with subjunctive), while 'con tal de' is followed by an infinitive and expresses purpose or willingness to do something at any cost.
Confused word:
Haría cualquier cosa con tal de verte feliz.
I would do anything in order to see you happy.
Notes: 'Con tal de' translates more as 'in order to' or 'for the sake of' rather than expressing a condition.
Mnemonic: 'Con tal de que' needs a complete clause after it (subject + verb), while 'con tal de' is followed directly by a verb in infinitive form.
Explanation: 'Con tal de que' introduces a condition, while 'a pesar de que' introduces a concession (meaning 'despite the fact that' or 'although').
Confused word:
Salió a correr a pesar de que estaba lloviendo.
He went running despite the fact that it was raining.
Notes: These conjunctions have nearly opposite functions: one establishes conditions, the other acknowledges circumstances that don't prevent the main action.
Mnemonic: Think of 'con tal' as setting up a deal (if this, then that), while 'a pesar' acknowledges an obstacle being overcome.