estar por
Lemma Details
Translation: to be about to; to be in favor of; to remain to be done; to be inclined to
Part of Speech: verbal phrase
Etymology: This verbal phrase combines the Spanish verb 'estar' (to be) with the preposition 'por' (for, by, because of). 'Estar' comes from Latin 'stare' meaning 'to stand', while 'por' derives from Latin 'pro' (for, on behalf of). The combination creates a construction that indicates intention, inclination, or imminent action.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'estar por' as 'standing for' something - you're positioned to do something or in favor of it.
- When you 'estar por hacer algo' (are about to do something), you're standing at the threshold of action.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is commonly used in everyday Spanish conversation to express intentions, preferences, or imminent actions. It's an essential construction for expressing what someone is about to do or what remains to be done.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'estar por' often indicates something about to happen or something in favor of, 'estar para' typically indicates readiness, suitability, or being in the mood for something.
This word:
Estoy por salir.
I'm about to leave.
Confused word:
No estoy para bromas.
I'm not in the mood for jokes.
Notes: The distinction can be subtle and usage varies by region, but generally 'estar por' focuses more on intention or imminent action while 'estar para' focuses on readiness or suitability.
Mnemonic: 'Por' points to the future (about to), while 'para' points to purpose (ready for).
Explanation: Both 'estar por' and 'ir a' can express future actions, but 'estar por' suggests something imminent or that remains to be done, while 'ir a' is a more general future construction.
Notes: 'Estar por' often carries a sense of immediacy that 'ir a' doesn't necessarily have.
Mnemonic: 'Estar por' is for right now (immediate future), 'ir a' can be for any time in the future.