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"Adrede" is an adverb which is often translated as "on purpose", and "a propósito" is a phrase which is often translated as "deliberately". Learn more about the difference between "adrede" and "a propósito" below.
adrede(
ah
-
dreh
-
deh
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
1. (general)
a. on purpose
No rompí el plato adrede. Fue un accidente.I didn't break the plate on purpose. It was an accident.
b. intentionally
Los Lezcano se fueron temprano adrede para evitar cruzarse conmigo.The Lezcanos left early intentionally to avoid running into me.
a propósito(
ah
proh
-
poh
-
see
-
toh
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
a. deliberately
Ya sé que no rompieron el jarrón a propósito, pero por favor tengan más cuidado.I know you didn't deliberately break the vase, but, please, be more careful.
b. on purpose
Yo creo que lo dijo a propósito para que me pusiera celoso.I think she said it on purpose to make me jealous.
a. specially
He venido a Madrid a propósito para la reunión de antiguos alumnos.I've come to Madrid specially for the school reunion.
a. by the way
Hoy voy a comer con mi madre. A propósito, ¿cómo está la tuya?I'm having lunch with my mother today. By the way, how is yours?
b. which reminds me
He sacado el pan del congelador. A propósito, tenemos que comprar más para mañana.I've taken the bread out of the freezer. Which reminds me, we've got to buy more for tomorrow.
