Meaning
At the appropriate time, when the moment is right.
Cultural Background
In Spain, this phrase is often used to manage social expectations without being rude. It's a way of saying 'not now' without saying 'no'. Mexicans often use this to soften the blow of a delay. It adds a layer of politeness to professional interactions. Used frequently in political and social commentary to explain why certain events occurred the way they did. Often used in family settings to teach children patience.
Use it to defer
It's the perfect polite way to say 'not now' without being dismissive.
Don't use for clock time
Never use it to say 'at 3:00'. Use 'a las tres' instead.
Meaning
At the appropriate time, when the moment is right.
Use it to defer
It's the perfect polite way to say 'not now' without being dismissive.
Don't use for clock time
Never use it to say 'at 3:00'. Use 'a las tres' instead.
Pair with 'ya'
Adding 'ya' (e.g., 'Ya te lo diré en su momento') makes it sound very natural.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
No te preocupes por el examen, lo estudiaremos ________.
'En su momento' is the correct idiomatic expression for 'at the right time'.
Which sentence is more natural?
A) Lo haré en el momento. B) Lo haré en su momento.
'En su momento' is the standard idiom for 'at the right time'.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
En su momento -> ?
The phrase refers to an appropriate future or past time.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Cuándo me vas a contar el secreto? B: ________.
This is the most natural way to defer the conversation.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesNo te preocupes por el examen, lo estudiaremos ________.
'En su momento' is the correct idiomatic expression for 'at the right time'.
A) Lo haré en el momento. B) Lo haré en su momento.
'En su momento' is the standard idiom for 'at the right time'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The phrase refers to an appropriate future or past time.
A: ¿Cuándo me vas a contar el secreto? B: ________.
This is the most natural way to defer the conversation.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsIt is neutral. It works in both casual and formal settings.
Yes, it is very common for future events.
Yes, it is excellent for justifying past actions.
No. 'In the moment' (mindfulness) is different.
No, it is invariable.
'A su debido tiempo' is slightly more formal.
Yes, it shows maturity and patience.
Yes, it is universally understood.
No, it means the opposite—waiting for the right time.
En-su-mo-MEN-to.
No, it is standard Spanish.
It's better to use it to remain calm and professional.
Related Phrases
A su debido tiempo
synonymAt the due time
En el momento oportuno
similarAt the opportune moment
Ya llegará
similarIt will arrive
Todo a su tiempo
builds onEverything in its time
