Grover Laughton

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Entendiendo los honoríficos japoneses: Una guía completa 

Understanding Japanese Honorifics: A Comprehensive Guide

Elly Kim

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Empezando desde abajo: Cinco formas de decir sí en japonés 

Starting From The Bottom: Five Ways to Say Yes in Japanese

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Más allá de Arigatou: Una guía para decir gracias en japonés 

Beyond Arigatou: A Guide to Saying Thank You in Japanese

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Explorando palavras japonesas em inglês: De Anime a Zen

Explorando palabras japonesas en inglés: Desde Anime hasta Zen

Exploring Japanese Words in English: From Anime to Zen

Articles by Promova tutors and experts about learning languages, education, and cultural experiences in general

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As our global society evolves, so too does our appreciation for the myriad ways in which people process information and acquire new skills. At the forefront of this shift is the recognition of neurodiversity, particularly in the realm of education.Promova has taken a significant step in this direction by becoming the first language learning platform to introduce a dedicated Dyslexia Mode. This year, with the release of Dyslexia Mode 2.0, it continues to push the boundaries of inclusive education. To delve deeper into the implications of this innovative feature and its impact on neurodivergent learners, we spoke with Darren Clark, Promova's neurodiversity consultant, who has worked with major organizations such as Netflix and HSBC, and is also a global partner for the International Dyslexia Association and an ambassador for the British Dyslexia Association.<h2>Understanding Neurodiversity and Dyslexia</h2>Darren Clark explains neurodiversity as an umbrella term encompassing various neurological differences: "What sits underneath neurodiversity, you can have ADHD, dyspraxia, autism, dyscalculia, and obviously dyslexia as well". Neurodiversity recognizes that these variations in the brain are natural and contribute to human diversity.Dyslexia, specifically, is a learning difference that primarily affects reading, writing, and spelling due to differences in how the brain processes language. Darren Clark emphasizes its variable nature: "Dyslexia is scalable. So not a single person has the same dyslexia. I can have dyslexia, and someone else could have dyslexia, but it could be severe dyslexia or slight dyslexia, and it can affect people in so many different ways."&nbsp;There's a common misconception that dyslexia is just about reading, or that words move around on the page, but that's not always true: "It can manifest in various ways, including difficulties with concentration, fidgeting, having trouble remembering things, or finding it hard to respond quickly to questions."<h2>Personal Journey and Late Diagnosis</h2>Darren Clark describes his school experience as challenging. He was often misunderstood and not given appropriate support: “I wasn’t allowed to sit mainstream lessons and spent my time in a unit for troubled children, where I mainly just colored and sketched. That was the kind of education I received.”As a result, he left school at 16 without being able to read or write proficiently and with no qualifications. Despite these setbacks, Darren was determined to succeed. He found ways to navigate the workplace, teaching himself to read and write through various experiences.Despite achieving success in retail and advancing his career, he wasn't diagnosed until the age of 36: "I always knew that I was different. I knew that I struggled with certain things… concentrating in class and certain facts and figures.&nbsp;The pivotal moment came when I was watching a news reportage, and a lady was being interviewed about her florist business. She was selling flowers, and I thought it was a segment about entrepreneurship, so I was very intrigued by what was happening. It was only a seven or eight-minute interview, but as the conversation went on, she kept saying the word ‘dyslexia’. Up until that point, I didn’t know what dyslexia was. She mentioned how she can’t spell the bouquets of flowers but can tell what they are by the colors, smells, and everything else. As she kept mentioning dyslexia and then went into how she sees the world being dyslexic, it was the first time I felt that someone had actually spoken to me and understood how I saw the world and how I felt."Darren’s journey of self-discovery led him to raise dyslexia awareness professionally. Initially, he focused on inspirational talks about entrepreneurship: “When I left my senior position, I wanted to show that you could start with no qualifications and still succeed.”&nbsp;As he became more aware of his diagnosis, he sought to raise awareness around dyslexia: “I started to think about how I could raise more awareness. Society has changed to accept it a little bit more.”Over the past years, Darren has become a prominent voice in the neurodiversity space, often calling himself the "original dyslexia influencer." He recognizes a shift in societal attitudes: “When I was invited to speak, many didn’t want me to discuss dyslexia because they thought it wouldn’t sell tickets.” However, his persistent advocacy and community work laid the groundwork for greater acceptance.One of Darren’s significant collaborations has been with Netflix: “It began with a few individuals within Netflix wanting to raise awareness around dyslexia. We started with short talks. From there, it expanded into longer discussions, eventually involving more departments.” His work with Netflix has involved helping the company better support its employees and ensure inclusivity for their global audience, especially in terms of accessibility through fonts, colors, and designs.Darren emphasizes that the model he uses for large corporations, such as Netflix, is similar to how he approaches smaller organizations: "It’s about starting conversations. Once that happens, it begins to expand. The project with Netflix lasted for several years, growing from one department to multiple countries."<h2>Language Learning with Dyslexia</h2>For many individuals with dyslexia, learning a foreign language can be particularly challenging. Darren Clark shares his deep respect for those who have mastered multiple languages: “I have immense admiration for anyone who can speak more than one language. It’s something I find truly impressive.”Despite his challenges with language, Darren emphasizes his love for words and his constant desire to learn: "I love language. I love words. I absolutely take on board if I learn a new word, I'm obsessed by it. And I'm thinking, 'How can I use this in a different conversation?'" He describes himself as a sponge, always trying to absorb new skills or words to make up for the years of learning he missed in his youth.Darren also reflects on the limitations of language education in his experience, noting that in the UK, foreign language learning was often treated as an optional subject with limited emphasis. He suggests that for many in the dyslexic community, learning a new language would be "like a gift." Despite these challenges, Clark acknowledges the advantage of being a native English speaker in terms of global communication, especially in his work raising awareness about dyslexia.Looking ahead, Darren expresses a strong desire to learn languages. He sees it as an exciting opportunity, especially with new tools like Promova's Dyslexia Mode: "I'm truly saying this from the heart. I was truly truly shocked that I could have the opportunity to learn a new language," Darren enthuses. He describes this new possibility as "releasing a block" or "opening a door," and is eager to continue his language learning journey with these accessible tools.<h2>Inclusive Language Learning Tools</h2>Recognizing various barriers that neurodivergent individuals face, Darren has since dedicated himself to improving accessibility. He’s committed to raising awareness and crafting practical solutions that empower people with learning differences to thrive in educational and work environments.<h3>Importance of Visual Design</h3>Darren emphasizes the critical role of visual presentation in educational materials: "Anything that's blocked up, condensed, or suddenly throws in a capital letter can be off-putting". This highlights the necessity for clean and consistent design in educational apps.He warns against the common marketing practice of using varied fonts to create visual interest: "So the hook that the headline that they would have would be in one font and then, possibly the actual blue over what they do, maybe in something else and then they might tweak it at the end. And I've seen this on many occasions, not just in marketing, but in apps as well. It just confuses the issue". Such variations can disrupt the learning process for dyslexic learners. "What we want to do is keep that level of emotion and understanding." So, while a consistent visual experience is important, it must also support comprehension.<h3>Color and Readability</h3>Darren Clark also addresses the role of color in enhancing readability. While noting that color preferences can vary from person to person, he shares: "I can't read anything in red. It just morphs into a blob, and I can't read it." This personal insight underscores the need for customizable color options in learning apps.<h3>Consistency in Learning Experience</h3>Darren stresses the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the learning process: "If we're understanding how we're learning a new skill, like a new language, and we know the tools to learn this language, but then the first couple of sections are in one format and suddenly switch to another, you're changing the learning patterns". This insight is crucial for app developers, highlighting the need for a cohesive user experience throughout the learning journey.<h3>Repetition and Review</h3>For Darren Clark, learning often requires multiple repetitions: "Whenever I'm learning something, I have to follow that pattern. Sometimes three or four times to really embed it, and then I can relay it". This highlights the importance of allowing learners to easily review and repeat lessons within language learning apps, enhancing retention and understanding.<h3>Recognizing Good and Bad Days</h3>Darren notes that the severity of dyslexia symptoms can vary from day to day: "The words moving around on the page, it doesn't happen to me all the time. It only happens when I’m really kind of quite tired, overwhelmed, or just overworked". This variability underscores the need for flexibility in learning tools. Users should have the possibility to adjust their pace according to their current state and needs.One of Darren’s key coping strategies is recognizing when to take breaks: "What I've learned to do is if that happens, I'll shut my laptop and I'll turn off my devices and I'll go for a walk". This practice of taking "mental health breaks" is something Clark advocates for in both educational and workplace settings. This is essential in maintaining focus and productivity.<h2>Promova: Dyslexia Mode 2.0</h2>Recognizing these challenges, Promova has launched Dyslexia Mode 2.0, designed specifically to support learners with dyslexia in their language acquisition. This innovative feature embodies the principles Darren advocates for in inclusive design.For many individuals with dyslexia, learning a new language has long seemed an insurmountable challenge: "I truly do believe that I want everyone who has dyslexia to realize that they can learn a new language purely." Darren emphasizes that Promova’s Dyslexia Mode has "really leveled the playing field".The impact of this feature extends far beyond just language acquisition: "It doesn't just change the fact of learning language; it opens up the world for many different opportunities." This perspective highlights how accessibility in language learning can have far-reaching effects on personal and professional development for individuals with dyslexia.Darren describes the experience of using Dyslexia Mode 2.0 as a paradigm shift for many learners. "It's almost like a block has been released. It's almost like you've had hypnotherapy and suddenly this block's come [off]." Indeed, accessible learning tools can have a liberating effect on individuals who have long struggled with traditional language learning methods.<h3>Power of Inclusive Design</h3>Promova's commitment to inclusive design is evident in the additional features introduced in Dyslexia Mode 2.0. One such feature is the integration of white noise. Clark praises it for its ability to enhance focus and concentration: "The ability to drown that out without having to buy really expensive, thousand-pound headphones. Have that opportunity at a flick of a switch? Is going to really kind of embrace their learning and go all in and keep you engaged".Darren Clark enjoys working in a busy setting: “I love working in a coffee shop, seeing the busy staff going around. Visually. I'm happy to see it, but to focus, I need as much comfort and audio cover as possible. That’s why I do turn on white noise, especially when I'm flying—because of the constant humming. When we hear certain sounds, we fixate on them—a ticking clock, someone stirring a coffee cup, someone coughing, or it could be a zipper. These noises get magnified. So, if we took an environment where we're learning a language, it doesn't necessarily have to be a noisy coffee shop—it can be at home with the TV on. Or it could be other people talking."Promova's white noise feature helps block out those distractions, allowing for better focus during language learning.<h3>Safe Spaces and Sharing</h3>While Dyslexia Mode 2.0 represents a significant advancement, Darren Clark emphasizes the ongoing need for understanding and support in educational and professional environments. He advocates for creating safe spaces where individuals can openly discuss their needs without fear of judgment or career repercussions: “It's making the environment a safe place for someone to be able to ask those questions. For someone to say I have dyslexia, I'm struggling. Can you support in this or are there ways of supporting in this and not finding the fear that they're now going to be categorized as they're not gonna be able to do their work or they're not going to get that promotion.”Darren also emphasizes the importance of understanding how workplace environments can affect neurodivergent individuals: “The way that the company may be set up—with the strobe lighting, continuous noise, open-plan offices, or the fact that meetings are scheduled one after the other, where we have to put our cameras on—can sometimes feel stifling. We don’t always want to be visual. There are so many different things. And I think the biggest step we can do is just start by having these conversations.”What’s more, Darren Clark highlights the importance of individuals sharing their stories and experiences with dyslexia: "I love that journey that people go on. If you can just inspire one person with your story or your understanding of how dyslexia, for instance, some of the challenges you face and you've overcome, it will act as a ripple effect, and you'll never know how many people you have helped because it will just continue to ripple out."<h2>Looking to the Future</h2>As Promova continues to refine and expand its Dyslexia Mode, the potential for positive impact grows. Darren Clark's insights highlight the importance of such innovations in creating a more inclusive world of language learning. By breaking down barriers and opening up new possibilities, Promova's Dyslexia Mode 2.0 is not just teaching languages – it's changing lives.For those with dyslexia who have long felt excluded from the world of multilingualism, Promova's initiative offers a beacon of hope. As Darren so aptly puts it, “Find your community, learn languages, learn new skills, and really just embrace who you are.”

As our global society evolves, so too does our appreciation for the myriad ways in which people process information and acquire new skills. At the forefront of this shift is the recognition of neurodiversity, particularly in the realm of education.

Darren Clark: “I want everyone who has dyslexia to realize that they can learn a new language purely and I mean this from the heart.”

In the ever-evolving world of language learning apps, Promova is dedicated to prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility. Daryna Mednikova, Chief Product Officer, shared the company’s mission to create a user-friendly, innovative platform that meets the needs of all learners, especially those who are neurodivergent.<h2>Commitment to Supporting Neurodiverse Learners</h2>Promova is committed to providing&nbsp;experiences that cater to diverse cognitive needs. Daryna explains, “We build our product with great empathy for the user. Through constant research, we've found that many of them face various forms of attention issues when learning a language.”This insight is no surprise in our information-filled era. "An average person processes around 34 gigabytes of information per day from various sources like social media, emails, news, and conversations. Moreover, daily information intake has increased significantly over the years. For instance, individuals are estimated to process about 5% more information each year compared to previous ones. Such a constant influx of data inevitably impacts our cognitive abilities, including the capacity to focus and learn effectively. It's estimated that up to 20% of people are neurodivergent, so building a product effective for different minds is crucial”.&nbsp;<h2>Enhancing Accessibility&nbsp;</h2>Promova has made strides in addressing dyslexia and is currently working on adaptations for a spectrum of neurodiverse needs. Daryna reveals, "We've just kicked off the second iteration of our Dyslexia Mode, which includes audio-visual versions of the product to be more compatible with users who have various forms of dyslexia.”&nbsp;Launched on October 3, 2023, Dyslexia Mode 1.0 uses a special font developed by dyslexic designer Martin Pyšný. Dysfont features simple letter shapes that are less likely to be confused with one another (for example, similar letters like "b" and "d" or "p" and "q"), optimized spacing to prevent overcrowding of characters, and a design that reduces visual stress, making it easier for learners with dyslexia to read text clearly and quickly.“Dyslexia Mode 2.0 includes changes to the app layout and color palette based on recommendations from Martin Pyšný. Another key improvement is the removal of text in all capital letters. For many dyslexic users, capital letters can be harder to read due to their uniform shape and height, making word recognition slower. Lowercase letters often have distinct features, like ascenders and descenders (the parts of letters that extend above or below the line, such as in “b” or “p”), which aid in word recognition and spacing. By using both upper and lowercase letters, we’ve made text more distinguishable, helping learners read more comfortably than is possible with all-caps. Additionally, we’ve introduced a white noise feature to improve concentration.”Promova's commitment to accessibility goes beyond supporting neurodivergent users. "We're going to work on a dark mode soon. It's very important for learners to study without flashing," the CPO reveals. “Night time is convenient for a specific cohort to make their half an hour before bedtime productive. We want to make this cozy and not complicated for them.”Looking ahead, Promova plans to introduce dynamic type settings, allowing users with visual impairments to adjust font structures and sizes based on their needs. The team also continuously improves its UI/UX based on ongoing input from users. "We enjoy talking with our learners. We have product advocates who regularly provide us with feedback. We continue to launch dedicated interviews to gather their thoughts. And this is really a super exciting part of our job!"<h2>Role-Play Activities</h2>Promova's flagship feature, AI role-play, is revolutionizing language learning for everyone, especially neurodivergent learners. Daryna explains its unique benefits: “Our AI role-play creates a stress-free environment where users can practice language without fears — fear of judgment, fear of making mistakes, fear of speaking too slowly, and other anxieties that come with practicing with real people.” Indeed, AI offers a safe space for learners to take risks, make errors, and just be themselves, without feeling self-conscious or embarrassed.This approach is especially valuable for those who struggle with attention span issues, including individuals with ADHD. “We pay close attention to the context of our learning materials, looking at how complex the lessons are and how engaging they feel,” Daryna continues. “We've found that for some users, monotonous repetitive exercises alone are not enough to maintain focus and reduce cognitive load.”To address these challenges, Promova has developed a diverse set of features designed to keep the learning experience fresh and exciting. “In August, we launched an AI-based practice where users create sentences with previously learned words,” Daryna explains. “This&nbsp;works alongside our other features like reading lessons, cultural insights, vocabulary flashcards, and quizzes. Our goal has always been to provide a variety of interactive elements, ensuring there's always something new for users to explore and engage with.”<h2>White Noise&nbsp;</h2>One of the newest standout features in Promova's toolkit is the white noise function. While it was designed with users who have ADHD in mind, it offers benefits that extend to all learners. According to the CPO, “It is a specific frequency that has been scientifically proven to dramatically improve user focus, and the memory comprehension of the learned content is increased. Think about it as a sound bubble that is specifically created for the user to make them hyper-focused on what's happening when working on the lesson cards.”The white noise creates a consistent audio background that helps learners focus intensely on the content by removing external distractions. It is mainly used for lessons requiring longer attention spans, such as grammar quizzes or reading exercises. However, the feature is not intended for speaking or pronunciation exercises, where clear audio input is crucial.<h2>Addressing Attention Deficits&nbsp;</h2>In today’s fast-paced digital world, attention span becomes the key determinant in the way we learn. As Daryna Mednikova highlights, “We’re exposed to an overwhelming amount of information daily, both visually and through reading, and it keeps increasing. Our interaction with content on social media has changed the way our brains respond to and process information.”This change has led to what the CPO refers to as the “music video attention type”: “Users quickly grasp small chunks of information and get a quicker emotional reaction to them. But then the problem comes with how to create a lasting memory from that, so that the right information is used when they are faced with speaking practice or relevant real-life situations.”Keeping that in mind, Promova has developed a methodology for users with shorter attention spans. It relies on consistency and bite-sized sessions: “It’s far more beneficial to study for 10 minutes a day or have two 10-minute sessions than to cram for 40 minutes just once a week”.<h2>Navigating Challenges&nbsp;</h2>By pushing the boundaries of accessible language learning, the team faces complex decisions and technical hurdles. Daryna Mednikova cites prioritization as the biggest challenge: "We have a lot on our plate, and it's really important for us to pick what’s important for the users that can also really improve their learning experience." This careful balancing act requires the team to constantly evaluate which features will have the most significant impact on learners, especially those with diverse needs.The global nature of language learning adds another layer of complexity. "It's important for us to make sure that the product has outstanding performance, and that users with different devices in different geographies can have a positive interaction with it." This global reach means considering a wide array of gadgets, internet speeds, and cultural contexts.<h2>Shaping the Future</h2>Looking out at the bigger landscape of educational apps, "a lot of products on the market are doing a really good job at working on product accessibility." Daryna points to advances in development frameworks that have made it easier to implement those features, nudging the industry forward.Accessibility is just the tip of the iceberg. Promova is tackling what she calls "an issue wider and more complicated than just the process of language learning." That goal is to create an adaptive environment that meets each user where they are. "One of our main values is actually to add building blocks that make the world a better place." This is decidedly not at all just marketing speak. It's clear in every line of their product, from the thoughtfully laid-out visuals down to such innovative features as the dyslexia-friendly font and white noise integration.Promova is also cultivating a global community founded on mutual respect and understanding. “We have the internal values in terms of which content and how to provide the content so that we can support tolerance, respect in different cultures, and just making this feeling of the world and community as a united place. This is one of our main competitive advantages. Users report that the product is joyful, easy to use, and respectful.”With each of these steps, though, comes a realization that much more can be done to make language learning fully accessible. Technology moves fast, and with it, so does the understanding of the diversity of needs. And this is why Promova will continue setting trends for inclusive experiences. While the world seems to become more divided every day, we build bridges, one lesson at a time.

In the ever-evolving world of language learning apps, Promova is dedicated to prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility. Daryna Mednikova, Chief Product Officer, shared the company’s mission to create a user-friendly, innovative platform that meets the needs of all learners, especially those who are neurodivergent.

Daryna Mednikova: “It's estimated that up to 20% of people are neurodivergent, so building a product effective for different minds is crucial.” 

Many people think the most challenging part of learning a language is taking the first steps and learning your first words. The beginning of the journey seems more exciting and intriguing, which gives you more motivation. The tough part is facing the first problems and understanding the grammatical features of the language.&nbsp;Por vs. para in Spanish topic can be your first obstacle. But don't worry – this guide will help you out!<h2>Understanding the Difference: “Por” vs. “Para”</h2>Both of these words are prepositions that Spanish people use to indicate a goal. So what's the difference? The challenging part is what meaning we put into the word “goal.” “Por” indicates a reason or motive, and “para” – an objective or result. Still not very clear, right? Here are some examples of&nbsp;difference between “por” and “para”:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Aspect</td><td>Por</td><td>Para</td><td>Explanation</td></tr><tr><td>Reason / Cause</td><td>Lo hago por ti (I do it because of you).</td><td>Estudio para aprobar (I study to pass).</td><td>“Por” explains the reason/motive, “Para” the goal or purpose.</td></tr><tr><td>Means / Method</td><td>Viajamos por tren (We travel by train).</td><td>Trabajo para una empresa (I work for a company).</td><td>“Por” refers to means or medium, and "Para" indicates who/what the action benefits.</td></tr><tr><td>Duration / Time Frame</td><td>Estuve en España por dos semanas (I was in Spain for two weeks).</td><td>Este proyecto es para mañana (This project is for tomorrow).</td><td>“Por” shows duration, “Para” sets a deadline or future point.</td></tr><tr><td>Exchange / Price</td><td>Te lo cambio por otro (I’ll exchange it for another one).</td><td>Este regalo es para ti (This gift is for you).</td><td>“Por” indicates exchange or cost, “Para” marks intended recipient.</td></tr><tr><td>Destination / Goal</td><td>Camino por el parque (I walk through the park).</td><td>Voy para el parque (I’m going to the park).</td><td>“Por” refers to the route, “Para” to the destination.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>What do all these examples have in common? These cases of using the “por” meaning indicate more about the process itself: walking, traveling, etc. It is used in more “relaxed” cases. At the same time, a pair indicates the final goal: the result, point B, benefit.1<h2>Common Uses of “Por”: Reasons, Causes, and Means</h2>Let's look at each case separately to understand the topic of&nbsp;“para” vs. “por” more deeply. So, “por” is used in the context of a reason and emphasizes this difference in situations. Here are some examples of contexts where this word is appropriate:<ul><li>Reason or motive: “No salí por la lluvia.” – I didn't go out because of the rain.</li><li>Intermediate stage: “Por el camino, vimos muchos pueblos pequeños.” – Along the way, we saw many small villages.</li><li>Time and duration:&nbsp;“Trabajé por cinco horas” – I worked for five hours.</li><li>Value or exchange: “Compré este libro por 10 euros.” – I bought this book for 10 euros.</li><li>Method of communication:&nbsp;“Hablamos por teléfono.” – We spoke on the phone.</li></ul>In addition to these phrases, you may have heard common expressions with&nbsp;“por” in Spanish, such as “por favor” (please),&nbsp;<a href="/blog/porque-vs-por-que-in-spanish">“por qué”</a> (why), or “por lo menos” (at least). You should memorize them&nbsp;because they are part of the active vocabulary of Spanish.<h2>Common Uses of “Para”: Purposes, Goals, and Destinations</h2>What does “para” mean in Spanish? “Para” adds specificity to speech. You’re not just going to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.britannica.com/facts/McDonalds">McDonald’s</a>; you’re going to McDonald’s to try the summer menu. This preposition is&nbsp;frequently used&nbsp;in everyday speech and fits nicely into a variety of contexts:<ul><li>Purpose or intention:&nbsp;“Estudio para ser médico.” – I’m studying to become a doctor.</li><li>Recipient of the action: “Esta carta es para Juan.” – This letter is for Juan.</li><li>Deadlines: “Este proyecto debería estar terminado para el viernes.” – This project should be finished by Friday.</li><li>Destination: “Salgo para Madrid mañana.” – I'm leaving for Madrid tomorrow.</li><li>Point of view: “Para mí, este libro es interesante.” – In my opinion, this book is interesting.</li></ul>You can encounter this preposition as part of&nbsp;<a href="https://promova.com/blog/conversational-spanish">active vocabulary</a> or set expressions. For example, para mí (for me), para siempre (forever), ¿para qué? (for what?). These examples will help you differentiate between the two prepositions more quickly.<h2>The Verbs With&nbsp;“Por” vs. “Para”</h2>Prepositions can be combined with other words to&nbsp;<a href="https://promova.com/blog/saber-or-conocer-in-spanish">form verbs</a>: they are easy to remember and will enrich your vocabulary. Here are some examples:<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Por</td><td>Para</td></tr><tr><td>Optar por – to choose something.Preocuparse por – to worry about something.Preguntar por – to ask about someone/something.</td><td>Trabajar para – to work for someone or something.Esforzarse para – to try hard for something.Ahorrar para – to save money for something.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>The use of “por” and “para” with verbs follows the same rules: “por” when describing a reason or motive and&nbsp;“para” in Spanish for goals. For example, when we talk about payment, we always use “por,” and when discussing verbs of place or naming, we choose “para.”&nbsp;<h2>Upgrade your Spanish with Promova</h2>Native speakers intuitively understand the&nbsp;“por” and “para” differences in which preposition or verb form to use. You may find this task difficult when you encounter something like this for the first time.&nbsp;<a href="/app/spanish-language-learning-app">Promova language learning app</a> will prove to you that Spanish is interesting. Our one-step solution opens up vast learning opportunities:<ul><li>Guided Spanish course. Test your language level and study with our interactive tasks and exciting theory lessons.</li><li>Flexibility. Choose how much time you are ready to devote to practice and learning; even 15 minutes a day will be enough for you!</li><li>Other available languages. Add lessons in English, French, Chinese, and other languages to boost your knowledge even more! Guided courses are available for ten options.&nbsp;</li></ul>Downloading and using the app is completely free. You can try a paid subscription to unlock unique features and make your course even more fun!<h2>Conclusion</h2>Nothing will give you such results as practicing and actively using new words and rules.&nbsp;When to use por vs. para is a tricky question that often adds adventure to new learners. Find the positive in everything – the more complex the topic, the more you can practice!Our examples show the main difference between these two: reason and goal, route as a process, or “from point A to point B.” We hope this topic motivated you to try new things and achieve new goals on your path to learning Spanish!

Many people think the most challenging part of learning a language is taking the first steps and learning your first words. The beginning of the journey seems more exciting and intriguing, which gives you more motivation.

Mastering “Por” vs. “Para”: A Complete Guide for Spanish Learners

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