a ver
/a ˈbeɾ/
The English phrase "let me see" can be translated into Spanish as a ver.
A ver is a common phrase used when someone is thinking about how to answer or is about to check something. It can mean "let me see" when you are checking a physical object, and it is also used to mean "let's see" when expressing curiosity or anticipation about a result.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition a (to) and the infinitive ver (to see).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the phrase Vamos a ver is commonly used in informal settings and can be used interchangeably with "let's see" or "let me see". In Spain, ¿Me dejas ver? is used as a casual or informal way to request permission to see something.
How do you pronounce it?
/a ˈbeɾ/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly write a haber instead of a ver because they sound similar, but a ver is the correct form for "let's see".
Did you know?
- The Spanish word ver is a distant relative of the English words 'wit' and 'wise', as both stem from the same ancient root meaning 'to see' or 'to know'.
- Using a ver to start a sentence can signal a challenge or a demand for proof, similar to saying 'Alright, let's see if you can actually do it'.
- Depending on the intonation, a ver can be used to express extreme impatience or annoyance when someone is taking too long to find something.
Examples in context
- A ver tu herida.Let me see your wound.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase a ver when looking at a wound.Tatoeba #1654695 by marcelostockle, translation #267360 by Auride
- A ver su lengua.Let me see your tongue.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase a ver when looking at a tongue.Tatoeba #1654697 by marcelostockle, translation #272646 by CK
- ¡A ver esa sonrisa!Let me see that smile!This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase a ver when asking someone to smile.Tatoeba #10009265 by swyter, translation #10608317 by DJ_Saidez
- 8 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are planning their weekend trip.
- LucíaA ver, ¿qué día podemos viajar?Let me see, what day can we travel?
- MateoCreo que el sábado es mejor.I think Saturday is better.
- LucíaA ver si tengo libre ese día.Let me see if I am free that day.
- MateoAvísame cuando revises tu calendario.Let me know when you check your calendar.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry a ver, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, a ver, ver, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
