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a pesar de means despite — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 8, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

a pesar de

expression • /[ah peh-SAR deh]/

despite

Example:

A pesar de la lluvia, salimos.

Despite the rain, we went out.

🧠 What does a pesar de mean?

The Spanish expression 'a pesar de' means 'despite' or 'in spite of' in English. It introduces a contrasting idea or circumstance that doesn't prevent the main action or state from happening. Think of it as highlighting an obstacle that is overcome. It's a very common and useful phrase to add nuance to your Spanish conversations.

📚 Extra examples

  • A pesar de la lluvia, fuimos al parque.
    Despite the rain, we went to the park.
  • A pesar de estar cansado, terminé el proyecto.
    Despite being tired, I finished the project.
  • A pesar de sus diferencias, son buenos amigos.
    Despite their differences, they are good friends.
  • A pesar del tráfico, llegué a tiempo.
    Despite the traffic, I arrived on time.
  • A pesar de todo, sigo siendo optimista.
    Despite everything, I remain optimistic.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'aunque' can often be used interchangeably with 'a pesar de', the latter emphasizes the contrast more strongly.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "a pesar de"

Synonyms: aunque, aun si

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'despite' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'despite' in Spanish is 'a pesar de'.
How do you pronounce 'a pesar de' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'ah pe-SAR de'. The emphasis is on the second syllable, 'SAR'. Each word is pronounced separately and clearly.
How do you use 'a pesar de' in a sentence?
Use 'a pesar de' at the beginning or middle of a sentence, followed by a noun, pronoun, or verb in the infinitive. For example: 'A pesar del frío, salí a caminar' (Despite the cold, I went for a walk).
What is the English translation of 'a pesar de'?
The English translation of 'a pesar de' is 'despite' or 'in spite of'.
Does 'a pesar de' change for gender or number?
No, 'a pesar de' is an invariable expression. It stays the same regardless of the gender or number of the words around it.
Is 'a pesar de' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'a pesar de' is a very common expression used in everyday Spanish conversations.
Does 'a pesar de' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'a pesar de' has no slang or double meanings. It's a straightforward and clear expression.
Is 'a pesar de' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, 'a pesar de' is used the same way in Spain and Latin America. It's a universally understood expression.

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