para
prepositionBeginnerHigh frequency
What does “para” mean in English?
for
for (destination / purpose)
Example sentences
Este regalo es para ti.
This gift is for you.
Estudio para aprender.
I study to learn.
Salimos para Madrid.
We leave for Madrid.
How to use it
Para means 'for' (recipient, deadline, purpose, destination). Distinct from por — para is forward-looking (purpose, target).
Common mistake
Para signals a forward-pointing 'for' (target, deadline, purpose). Use por for backward-pointing 'for' (cause, exchange, duration).
Topics
Related Beginner words
Reference
This entry’s teaching guidance follows A New Reference Grammar of Modern Spanish (Butt, Benjamin & Moreira Rodríguez, Routledge), 34.