Meaning
Used to indicate arrival or completion at the scheduled time.
Cultural Background
In Spain, being 'a tiempo' is highly valued in business, though social gatherings often have a flexible start time. In many Latin American countries, 'a tiempo' is used strictly for appointments, while social events might be more relaxed. The phrase is universally understood as a marker of reliability.
Don't add articles
Never say 'al tiempo'. It is always 'a tiempo'.
Punctuality varies
In some regions, 'a tiempo' might be interpreted as 'within 15 minutes of the time'.
Meaning
Used to indicate arrival or completion at the scheduled time.
Don't add articles
Never say 'al tiempo'. It is always 'a tiempo'.
Punctuality varies
In some regions, 'a tiempo' might be interpreted as 'within 15 minutes of the time'.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
El tren llegó ____.
'A tiempo' is the correct expression for being on time.
Which is correct?
Choose the correct phrase.
The preposition 'a' is required.
Finish the dialogue.
A: ¿Crees que terminaremos el proyecto? B: Sí, si trabajamos rápido, estaremos ____.
Context implies finishing before a deadline.
Match the situation to the correct phrase.
You are at the station and the train is not late.
Punctuality is described with 'a tiempo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEl tren llegó ____.
'A tiempo' is the correct expression for being on time.
Choose the correct phrase.
The preposition 'a' is required.
A: ¿Crees que terminaremos el proyecto? B: Sí, si trabajamos rápido, estaremos ____.
Context implies finishing before a deadline.
You are at the station and the train is not late.
Punctuality is described with 'a tiempo'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it describes the action of arriving or finishing, not the person's character.
It is neutral and works in all contexts.
'Tarde' (late).
No, that is incorrect. Always use 'a'.
Yes, it is standard across all Spanish-speaking countries.
Use 'justo a tiempo'.
Related Phrases
justo a tiempo
specialized formjust in time
a su tiempo
similarin due time
llegar tarde
contrastto arrive late
