In this lesson, we will explore how to use the expressions “estar a punto de” and “acabar de” in Spanish. These expressions are useful for talking about actions that are about to happen or have just happened.
- Learn to use “estar a punto de” to express imminent actions.
- Understand how to use “acabar de” to talk about recent past actions.
- Practice forming sentences using both expressions.
Vocabulary and Usage
- Estar a punto de + infinitive
- Meaning: To be about to do something.
- Example: “Estoy a punto de salir.” (I am about to leave.)
- Acabar de + infinitive
- Meaning: To have just done something.
- Example: “Acabo de comer.” (I have just eaten.)
Grammar Explanation
Estar a punto de:
- This phrase is used to describe an action that is going to happen very soon. It is followed by an infinitive verb.
- Structure: Estar (conjugated) + a punto de + infinitive verb.
Acabar de:
- This expression is used to talk about an action that has recently completed. It emphasizes the recency of the action.
- Structure: Acabar (conjugated) + de + infinitive verb.