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"Mediante" is a preposition which is often translated as "by means of", and "por" is a preposition which is often translated as "by". Learn more about the difference between "mediante" and "por" below.
mediante(
meh
-
dyahn
-
teh
)A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
1. (via)
a. by means of
Pudimos sacar el gato del pozo mediante un cubo y una cuerda.We were able to get the cat out of the well by means of a bucket and a rope.
c. through
Me comunico mediante email con mis colegas en el extranjero.I communicate through email with my colleagues abroad.
por(
pohr
)A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
5. (by way of)
a. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
¿Has ido a por tu hijo a la escuela?Have you picked up your son from school?
Habrá que ir a por leche cuando lleguemos.We'll need to go out for milk when we get there.
8. (for each)
10. (in place of)
a. for
Yo terminaré el trabajo por ti cuando estés de vacaciones.I'll finish the job for you while you're on vacation.
a. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
Está por verse.That remains to be seen.
El asunto está por resolverse.The issue is yet to be resolved.
