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"Aquí" is an adverb which is often translated as "here", and "por aquí" is a phrase which is often translated as "this way". Learn more about the difference between "aquí" and "por aquí" below.
aquí(
ah
-
kee
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
a. now
Si no te gusta lo que cocino, de aquí en adelante puedes preparar tu propia comida.If you don't like what I cook, from now on you can prepare your own food.
a. here
Aquí lo paré y le pedí que aclarara algo que había dicho antes.Here is where I stopped him and asked him to clarify something he'd said earlier.
por aquí(
pohr
ah
-
kee
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
a. this way
Por favor, venga por aquí, así lo acompaño hasta su aula.Please, come this way and I will show you your classroom.
b. through here
¿Dónde está la salida? - Está por aquí, al final del pasillo.Where's the exit? - It's through here, at the end of the hall.
a. around here
Sé que viven por aquí, aunque no sé exactamente dónde.I know they live around here, although I don't know where exactly.
b. somewhere here
He dejado mis llaves por aquí, pero ahora no las encuentro.I've left my keys somewhere here, but I cannot find them now.