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"Para" is a form of "para", a preposition which is often translated as "for". "Optar por" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to choose". Learn more about the difference between "optar por" and "para" below.
optar por(
ohp
-
tahr
pohr
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
1. (general)
a. to choose
Optamos por alquilar un departamento en lugar de quedarnos en un hotel.We chose to rent an apartment instead of staying at a hotel.
b. to opt
Las comisiones bancarias suelen ser más bajas si opta por abrir una cuenta corriente.Banking fees are often lower if you opt to open a checking account.
c. to opt for
Opté por la cartera azul en lugar de la negra.I opted for the blue handbag instead of the black one.
para(
pah
-
rah
)A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
a. for
Lo hice para ti.I did it for you.
Estas vitaminas son para niños.These vitamins are for children.
b. in order to (used before an infinitive)
Para ser salvavidas, tienes que saber nadar muy bien.In order to be a lifeguard, you have to know how to swim really well.
c. to (used before base form)
Le pedí dinero a mi abuela para aprender a cantar.I asked my grandma for money to learn to sing.
