con prisa
/kon pɾisa/from spelling rules
The English phrase "in a rush" is translated into Spanish as con prisa.
The phrase is used to describe being in a hurry to do something or to get somewhere. You can also use the adjective apurado or apurada to describe a person who is in a rush or feeling pressed for time.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase con prisa literally translates to "with haste" or "with hurry".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, Estoy con el tiempo justo can be used to convey being in a rush.
How does it change in a sentence?
While con prisa is an adverbial phrase, the common way to say "to be in a rush" is to use the verb tener (to have) with prisa.
Did you know?
- To describe someone moving at a frantic pace, Spanish speakers often use the colloquial phrase ir a mil, which literally means 'to go at a thousand'.
- The word prisa comes from the Latin 'pressa', which is the same root used in the English word 'pressure'. It carries the historical sense of being pressed or pushed by circumstances.
- While no tengo prisa means 'I am not in a rush', it is frequently used as a social tool to intentionally lower tension for the other person.
Examples in context
- Disculpe, estoy apurado. ¿Dónde está la estación de tren más cercana?Excuse me, I am in a hurry. Where is the nearest train station?
- Juan siempre camina con prisa por la mañana.Juan always walks in a rush in the morning.
Example conversation
Sofía sees Javier walking quickly through the office.
- SofíaHola Javier, ¿vas con prisa?Hi Javier, are you in a rush?
- JavierSí, tengo una reunión muy importante.Yes, I have a very important meeting.
- SofíaEntiendo, te veo luego entonces.I understand, I'll see you later then.
- JavierGracias, Sofía. ¡Adiós!Thanks, Sofía. Goodbye!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries con, prisa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
