Signification
Used to introduce a related topic into conversation.
Contexte culturel
In Spain, 'A propósito de' is often used in tertulias (social talk circles) to keep the conversation lively and connected. It's a sign of a good conversationalist. In Mexican business culture, this phrase is used to introduce a topic gently, avoiding the perceived rudeness of being too direct. Argentines might use 'A propósito' (without de) more frequently as a standalone interjection, but 'A propósito de' remains standard for formal writing. In Colombia, particularly in Bogotá, the phrase is used with a high degree of formality and politeness in everyday service interactions.
The 'Del' Rule
Always check if the noun following 'de' is masculine singular. If it is, use 'del'. 'A propósito del tiempo' (Speaking of the weather).
Don't Overuse
If you use it every two sentences, you will sound like a robot. Mix it up with 'Por cierto' or 'Hablando de'.
Signification
Used to introduce a related topic into conversation.
The 'Del' Rule
Always check if the noun following 'de' is masculine singular. If it is, use 'del'. 'A propósito del tiempo' (Speaking of the weather).
Don't Overuse
If you use it every two sentences, you will sound like a robot. Mix it up with 'Por cierto' or 'Hablando de'.
Email Starter
Use it to start a follow-up email: 'A propósito de nuestra conversación de ayer...' It sounds professional and organized.
Teste-toi
Fill in the blank with the correct form (remember contractions!).
Estamos hablando de cine. _________ cine, ¿has visto la nueva película de Almodóvar?
Since 'cine' is masculine and singular, 'de' + 'el' becomes 'del'.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly to change the topic?
Select the correct option:
This correctly uses the phrase to transition to a related topic (the person's mother).
Match the Spanish phrase with its English equivalent.
Match the following:
This tests the difference between the 'de' version, the 'on purpose' version, and the 'by the way' version.
Complete the dialogue with a logical transition.
Persona A: 'Me encanta viajar a Italia.' Persona B: 'A mí también. _________ Italia, ¿conoces algún buen restaurante en Roma?'
'A propósito de' is the most natural way to link the mention of Italy to a specific question about it.
Match the phrase to the correct register.
Which one is formal?
The use of 'su' (formal your) and 'solicitud' (application) makes this formal.
🎉 Score : /5
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
5 exercicesEstamos hablando de cine. _________ cine, ¿has visto la nueva película de Almodóvar?
Since 'cine' is masculine and singular, 'de' + 'el' becomes 'del'.
Select the correct option:
This correctly uses the phrase to transition to a related topic (the person's mother).
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
This tests the difference between the 'de' version, the 'on purpose' version, and the 'by the way' version.
Persona A: 'Me encanta viajar a Italia.' Persona B: 'A mí también. _________ Italia, ¿conoces algún buen restaurante en Roma?'
'A propósito de' is the most natural way to link the mention of Italy to a specific question about it.
Which one is formal?
The use of 'su' (formal your) and 'solicitud' (application) makes this formal.
🎉 Score : /5
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend. It's more formal than 'Hablando de' but less formal than 'En relación con'.
No. It must be followed by a noun or a phrase. If you want to say 'By the way' at the end, just use 'por cierto'.
'A propósito' means 'on purpose' or 'by the way'. 'A propósito de' means 'speaking of [something]'.
Yes, but the verb must be in the infinitive form. 'A propósito de cocinar, ¿qué vamos a cenar?'
Yes, it is universally understood and used from Spain to Argentina.
No, that is incorrect. It always starts with the preposition 'A'.
You can say 'A propósito de lo cual' or more commonly 'A propósito de eso'.
No, it is a prepositional phrase and does not trigger the subjunctive mood.
Very. Authors use it to transition between ideas or to introduce a character's backstory based on a current event.
Usually no, because it needs a 'hook' from a previous topic. However, you can use it to start an email if you are referencing a previous interaction.
Expressions liées
Hablando de
synonymSpeaking of
En cuanto a
similarAs for / Regarding
Por cierto
similarBy the way
Con respecto a
specialized formWith respect to
Cambiando de tema
contrastChanging the subject
