Welcome back, amigos y amigas, to another enlightening journey into the heart of the Spanish language, right here on “Andrés Aprendes”. Today, we’re unraveling the mystery of three Spanish language elements that often tangle up learners like a pair of earphones left in your pocket for too long: “lo de”, “lo que”, and the elusive “lo de que”. Let’s untangle this mess together, shall we?

“Lo de” vs. “Lo de que”: Siblings Not Twins

 

Imagine “lo de” and “lo de que” as siblings. They share the same last name, “lo de”, indicating they refer to something both the speaker and listener are aware of, but each has its own path.

“Lo de” is followed by a noun. It’s used when mentioning a specific event, situation, or thing, kind of like pointing to a known landmark in your shared mental map of the world. Example: “¿Recuerdas lo de la fiesta?” (Do you remember the thing about the party?) Here, “lo de” + “la fiesta” points to a specific event you both know.

“Lo de que”, on the other hand, is followed by a sentence. It’s like “lo de” decided to elaborate a bit more, to clarify or question something more complex or detailed. Example: “Estoy sorprendido por lo de que van a aumentar los precios” (I’m surprised about the fact they are going to raise the prices). Here, “lo de que” is used to refer to a known statement or fact that’s being further discussed or clarified.

Despite their differences, both are used to refer to known information, making them essential tools for navigating conversations filled with shared knowledge or mutual understandings.

 

“Lo que”: The What Without a Question

 

Now, turning to “lo que”, this one stands apart from its siblings. It’s like the cousin who moved abroad and came back with a new perspective. “Lo que” translates to “what” in English, but not the questioning “what” – rather, the declarative one that connects parts of a sentence.

“Lo que” is used when you’re about to specify or clarify something, not asking about it. Example: “No me gusta lo que hiciste” (I don’t like what you did). In this sentence, “lo que” introduces the specific thing that was done, which the speaker does not like.

In Simpler Terms

 

So, if we’re keeping it super straightforward:

“Lo de” + noun = “Remember that thing/event?”

“Lo de que” + sentence = “About that fact/statement…”

“Lo que” = “The thing that” (as in, “what” but definitely not a question).

Understanding these nuances can significantly enrich your ability to express nuanced thoughts and engage in more meaningful conversations in Spanish. They’re like the spices in your linguistic pantry; a little bit can flavor a whole conversation.

And that’s the streamlined scoop on “lo de”, “lo de que”, and “lo que”. Keep these distinctions in mind, and you’ll navigate Spanish conversations with greater ease and confidence. Until our next adventure, amigos, keep practicing and exploring the beautiful intricacies of Spanish. ¡Nos vemos!