en cuanto a
Lemma Details
Translation: regarding; concerning; with regard to; as for; with respect to
Part of Speech: preposition
Etymology: This prepositional phrase is formed from three Spanish words: 'en' (in), 'cuanto' (how much, derived from Latin 'quantum'), and 'a' (to). The combination creates a phrase used to introduce a topic or aspect being discussed. The word 'cuanto' comes from Latin 'quantus' meaning 'how much/how great', sharing roots with English words like 'quantity' and 'quantum'.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 40%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
En cuanto a tu pregunta, te responderé mañana.
Regarding your question, I will answer you tomorrow.
En cuanto a los precios, han subido considerablemente este año.
As for the prices, they have risen considerably this year.
No hay consenso en cuanto a la mejor solución.
There is no consensus regarding the best solution.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'en cuanto a' as 'in-quantity-to' which helps remember it means 'regarding' or 'with respect to'
- Associate 'cuanto' with 'quantum' (amount) to remember this phrase is about addressing a specific amount of attention to a topic
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal Spanish discourse to introduce a new topic or to shift focus in a conversation or text. It's particularly common in academic writing, business communications, and formal discussions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'En cuanto a' means 'regarding' or 'concerning', while 'en cuanto' means 'as soon as'.
Notes: The addition of 'a' completely changes the meaning from a temporal expression to a topical one.
Mnemonic: 'En cuanto a' has the extra 'a' which can remind you it's about 'addressing' a topic.
Explanation: 'En cuanto a' introduces a topic, while 'en tanto que' means 'while' or 'whereas' and is used to contrast ideas.
This word:
En cuanto a la política, prefiero no opinar.
Regarding politics, I prefer not to give my opinion.
Notes: These phrases have completely different grammatical functions despite both starting with 'en'.
Mnemonic: 'Tanto' sounds like 'tantamount' which involves comparison, helping you remember 'en tanto que' is about contrasting.