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"Para" is a form of "para", a preposition which is often translated as "for". "Servir a" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to serve". Learn more about the difference between "servir a" and "para" below.
servir a(
sehr
-
beer
ah
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
a. to serve
El mesero derramó un poco de sopa mientras servía a un cliente.The waiter spilled some soup while serving a customer.
a. to serve
Este monumento es un homenaje a los civiles y militares que sirvieron a su país durante la guerra.This monument is a tribute to the civilians and the military who served their country in the war.
a. to help
Estos libros sirvieron a muchos para aprender español.These books helped many people learn Spanish.
b. to serve ... to
La amarga experiencia nos sirvió a todos de lección.The bitter experience served as a lesson to us all.
c. to serve ... for
Johnson sirvió a los jugadores jóvenes de ejemplo.Johnson served as an example for young players.
d. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
Los consejos de mi profesor no solo me sirvieron a mí, sino también a muchos otros estudiantes de la escuela.My teacher’s advice was helpful not only for me, but also for many other students at the school.
La respuesta del actor le sirvió al periodista para hacerle una pregunta sobre su vida privada.The actor's answer gave the journalist the chance to ask him about his private life.
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.
