Adding de changes the expression and can change its meaning.
The idea
Pronto can mean soon; de pronto can mean suddenly. In Colombia, de pronto can also mean perhaps, depending on context.
Examples
- La reunión empieza pronto.The meeting starts soon.
- De pronto se apagó la luz.Suddenly the light went out.
- El tren llegará pronto.The train will arrive soon.
- De pronto sonó el teléfono.Suddenly the phone rang.
- Volveré pronto.I will be back soon.
- De pronto apareció una nube oscura.Suddenly a dark cloud appeared.
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Watch out
Do not assume de pronto always means soon: its sense depends on the expression and context.
Try it yourself
Choose the expression meaning soon. El tren llegará ___, dentro de unos minutos. (pronto / de pronto)
Show answer or example answer
pronto
Pronto expresses a short time ahead.
Choose the expression meaning suddenly. ___ se apagó la luz, sin aviso. (De pronto / Pronto)
Show answer or example answer
De pronto
De pronto expresses a sudden event in this sentence.
In the stated Colombian use, choose the equivalent of perhaps. En Colombia, «de pronto» puede significar ___. (quizá / temprano)
Show answer or example answer
quizá
In the stated Colombian use, de pronto can mean quizá.
Practice round
Answer questions, then rebuild Spanish sentences where available. We keep your score.
Choose the expression meaning soon. El tren llegará ___, dentro de unos minutos. (pronto / de pronto)
Choose the expression meaning suddenly. ___ se apagó la luz, sin aviso. (De pronto / Pronto)
In the stated Colombian use, choose the equivalent of perhaps. En Colombia, «de pronto» puede significar ___. (quizá / temprano)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Choose the requested meaning of soon, suddenly or the Colombian use meaning perhaps.