Meaning
Not be punctual.
Cultural Background
In Spain, social events often start slightly later than the stated time, but professional settings are strict. In many countries, 'llegar tarde' is culturally relative; 15-30 minutes might be considered acceptable for social gatherings. The phrase is universally understood as a negative, even if the social tolerance varies.
Invariable Adverb
Remember that 'tarde' never changes, even if you are talking about a group.
Don't use 'ser'
Never say 'soy tarde'. Always use 'llegar' for the action.
Meaning
Not be punctual.
Invariable Adverb
Remember that 'tarde' never changes, even if you are talking about a group.
Don't use 'ser'
Never say 'soy tarde'. Always use 'llegar' for the action.
Apologizing
In Spanish, it is polite to give a reason when you arrive late.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Siempre ____ tarde a la oficina.
The subject is 'yo' (implied by 'siempre').
Which is correct?
Choose the correct phrase.
'Tarde' is an invariable adverb.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Por qué llegaste tarde? B: ____.
This explains the cause of the delay correctly.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are at a meeting and you arrive at 9:15 for a 9:00 start.
Arriving after the start time is 'llegar tarde'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSiempre ____ tarde a la oficina.
The subject is 'yo' (implied by 'siempre').
Choose the correct phrase.
'Tarde' is an invariable adverb.
A: ¿Por qué llegaste tarde? B: ____.
This explains the cause of the delay correctly.
You are at a meeting and you arrive at 9:15 for a 9:00 start.
Arriving after the start time is 'llegar tarde'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, that is incorrect. Just say 'llegar tarde'.
It is neutral. You can use it with friends or your boss.
'Tarde' is late, 'temprano' is early.
Conjugate 'llegar' normally (llego, llegas, llega...).
Yes, 'El autobús llega tarde'.
No, 'ser tarde' means 'it is late' (the time).
Related Phrases
Llegar a tiempo
contrastTo arrive on time
Ir con retraso
similarTo be running late
Ser impuntual
similarTo be unpunctual
