Meaning
Introducing a related subject, often intentionally.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'Por cierto' is slightly more common in casual speech than 'A propósito', but both are understood. 'A propósito' sounds a bit more deliberate. Mexicans often use 'A propósito' to introduce a request politely, making it seem like an afterthought to avoid being too direct. In Argentina, the phrase is often used with a specific intonation to emphasize intent, especially in playful or sarcastic contexts. In formal Colombian speech, 'A propósito de...' is a very common way to show education and eloquence in business settings.
The Comma Rule
When using it to change the topic, always put a comma after it. It helps the listener pause and prepare for the new subject.
Don't overdo it
If you use 'A propósito' too many times in one conversation, you will sound like you have a short attention span. Mix it up with 'Por cierto'.
Meaning
Introducing a related subject, often intentionally.
The Comma Rule
When using it to change the topic, always put a comma after it. It helps the listener pause and prepare for the new subject.
Don't overdo it
If you use 'A propósito' too many times in one conversation, you will sound like you have a short attention span. Mix it up with 'Por cierto'.
Softening the Blow
Use 'A propósito' to bring up a difficult topic (like money owed) as if you just remembered it. It feels less aggressive.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'a propósito'.
No fue un accidente, lo hice ___.
In Spanish, the fixed phrase for 'on purpose' is always 'a propósito'.
Which sentence uses 'a propósito' as a transition?
Select the correct sentence:
When 'A propósito' starts a sentence followed by a comma, it acts as a transition meaning 'By the way'.
Match the meaning of 'a propósito' to the situation.
Situation: You are talking about movies and suddenly remember a new film you want to see.
You are transitioning to a related topic (movies), so it means 'By the way'.
Complete the dialogue.
Juan: 'Me encanta este restaurante.' Maria: '___, ¿sabías que el chef es francés?'
'A propósito' is the most natural way to add a related fact to the conversation.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesNo fue un accidente, lo hice ___.
In Spanish, the fixed phrase for 'on purpose' is always 'a propósito'.
Select the correct sentence:
When 'A propósito' starts a sentence followed by a comma, it acts as a transition meaning 'By the way'.
Situation: You are talking about movies and suddenly remember a new film you want to see.
You are transitioning to a related topic (movies), so it means 'By the way'.
Juan: 'Me encanta este restaurante.' Maria: '___, ¿sabías que el chef es francés?'
'A propósito' is the most natural way to add a related fact to the conversation.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsSlightly, but they are mostly interchangeable. 'A propósito' is preferred in written Spanish and professional contexts.
No, that is a common mistake influenced by Portuguese. In Spanish, it is always 'A propósito'.
Yes, 'propósito' always has an accent on the first 'o' because it is an 'esdrújula' word (stressed on the third-to-last syllable).
'Adrede' only means 'on purpose' and often has a negative connotation. 'A propósito' is more neutral and can also mean 'by the way'.
Use 'A propósito de la reunión'. Don't forget the 'de'!
Yes, but only when it means 'on purpose'. For example: 'Lo hizo a propósito'.
Yes, it is a universal phrase used from Spain to Argentina.
No, for that use 'con el fin de' or 'para'.
No, it is standard Spanish and appropriate for any situation.
The opposite of 'on purpose' is 'sin querer' or 'por accidente'.
Related Phrases
Por cierto
synonymBy the way
Adrede
synonymOn purpose
Dicho sea de paso
similarIncidentally
Sin querer
contrastBy accident / Without wanting to
