Meaning
Refers to the part of the day from noon until evening.
Cultural Background
The afternoon is often split by the siesta, making 'por la tarde' a very long period that extends until late evening. In Mexico, 'por la tarde' is often used to refer to the time after lunch, which is usually the main meal of the day. The afternoon is the prime time for 'mate' sessions, which can last for hours. People often use 'en la tarde' interchangeably with 'por la tarde' in casual conversation.
Consistency
Always use 'por' with 'la tarde'. It is a fixed phrase.
Don't skip 'la'
Saying 'por tarde' is incorrect. Always include the article.
Meaning
Refers to the part of the day from noon until evening.
Consistency
Always use 'por' with 'la tarde'. It is a fixed phrase.
Don't skip 'la'
Saying 'por tarde' is incorrect. Always include the article.
Regional variation
If you are in Colombia, 'en la tarde' is perfectly fine.
Socializing
The afternoon is the best time for social plans in many Spanish-speaking countries.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
Yo estudio __________.
The phrase requires the preposition 'por' and the article 'la'.
Choose the correct sentence.
Which sentence is correct?
The correct structure is 'por' + 'la' + 'tarde'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Cuándo vas al cine? B: __________.
This is the standard way to answer when an event occurs.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesYo estudio __________.
The phrase requires the preposition 'por' and the article 'la'.
Which sentence is correct?
The correct structure is 'por' + 'la' + 'tarde'.
A: ¿Cuándo vas al cine? B: __________.
This is the standard way to answer when an event occurs.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it is neutral and used in all contexts.
Yes, it is common in many Latin American countries.
Because 'tarde' is a feminine noun.
'Tarde' is the noun (afternoon), 'por la tarde' is the adverbial phrase (in the afternoon).
Yes, but 'a las tres de la tarde' is more precise.
Yes, it is the standard phrase in Spain.
No, 'tarde' as an adjective means 'late', but 'por la tarde' refers to the time of day.
No, that is 'por la mañana'.
It depends on the season, but usually that is 'por la noche'.
No, it is one of the first time expressions you will learn.
Related Phrases
por la mañana
contrastin the morning
por la noche
contrastat night
esta tarde
builds onthis afternoon
tarde o temprano
similarsooner or later
