tarde a clase
/taɾde a klase/from spelling rules
To say 'late for class' in Spanish, use tarde a clase.
This phrase is used to describe arriving after the scheduled start time of a lesson.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'late to class'. In this specific context of arriving at a destination, Spanish uses the preposition a (to) instead of para (for).
Which one should you use?
While tarde a clase refers to a single session, you can use the plural form tarde a clases if you are referring to being late for multiple sessions or classes in general.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying tarde para clase. While 'para' means 'for' in many contexts, English speakers often mistakenly use it here. You should use the preposition a instead.
Did you know?
- The word clase shares its DNA with the Latin word classis, which originally referred to a division of a fleet of ships. It describes a group of people categorized together, much like a naval squadron.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, arriving a few minutes tarde a clase may be socially acceptable and not viewed as a breach of etiquette.
- The word tarde is used in Spanish to mean both 'late' and 'afternoon'.
Examples in context
- Llegaremos tarde a clase.We'll be late for class.This sentence shows how to use tarde a clase with the verb llegar.Tatoeba #2840755 by teskmon, translation #266216 by CK
- Casi llego tarde a clase.I was almost late for class.This sentence shows how to use tarde a clase to describe a near-miss.Tatoeba #9457716 by eltacodemex, translation #9457715 by CK
- Él siempre llega tarde a clases.He's always late for class.This sentence shows the use of the plural form clases in the context of being late.Tatoeba #2228002 by marcelostockle, translation #289156 by CK
- Lamento llegar tarde a clase, profesor. Tuve un contratiempo en el camino.I am sorry for arriving late to class, professor. I had a setback on the way.
- Siento mucho no poder llegar a tiempo a la clase. Mi autobús se averió y llegué tarde.I am very sorry I could not arrive on time for the class. My bus broke down and I arrived late.
- Pido disculpas por llegar tarde a la clase. Perdí la noción del tiempo mientras estudiaba.I apologize for arriving late to class. I lost track of time while studying.
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are walking quickly to the university building.
- Alejandro¡Rápido! Voy a llegar tarde a clase.Quick! I'm going to be late for class.
- SofíaYo también, el autobús se retrasó.Me too, the bus was delayed.
- Alejandro¿Crees que el profesor se enojará?Do you think the professor will be angry?
- SofíaNo lo sé, pero corre, Alejandro.I don't know, but run, Alejandro.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, clase, tarde, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
