Afford in Spanish: How to Say "I Can Afford It" and More
"Afford" is a common English verb that means to have enough money to buy or do something. In Spanish, there are a few different ways to express the concept of "afford," depending on the context. Here's a breakdown of how to say "afford" in Spanish:
1. "Poder" (to be able to)
The most common way to express "afford" in Spanish is using the verb "poder," which means "to be able to." This is the most versatile option and can be used in various situations.
Examples:
- Puedo permitirme ese coche. (I can afford that car.)
- No puedo permitirme un viaje a Europa. (I can't afford a trip to Europe.)
- ¿Puedes permitirte un nuevo teléfono? (Can you afford a new phone?)
2. "Tener dinero suficiente" (to have enough money)
Another option is to use the phrase "tener dinero suficiente," which literally translates to "have enough money." This is a more direct way to express that you have the financial means to purchase something.
Examples:
- Tengo dinero suficiente para comprar un nuevo televisor. (I have enough money to buy a new TV.)
- No tengo dinero suficiente para ir a cenar fuera. (I don't have enough money to go out for dinner.)
- ¿Tienen dinero suficiente para pagar el alquiler? (Do you have enough money to pay the rent?)
3. "Estar a la altura" (to be up to)
This phrase is less commonly used but can be useful in certain contexts. It literally means "to be up to" and can be used to express the ability to handle the cost of something, often in a more figurative sense.
Examples:
- No estoy a la altura de los gastos de ese tratamiento. (I can't afford the cost of that treatment.)
- Esa casa está a la altura de nuestro presupuesto. (That house is within our budget.)
Choosing the Right Translation:
The best way to choose the right translation for "afford" in Spanish is to consider the context. "Poder" is the most general option and works well in most cases. However, "tener dinero suficiente" can be a more precise way to express the financial means, while "estar a la altura" might be suitable for more figurative uses.
Common Phrases with "Afford":
- "No me puedo permitir..." (I can't afford...)
- "Puedo permitirme..." (I can afford...)
- "¿Te puedes permitir...?" (Can you afford...?)
- "No tener dinero suficiente para..." (Not to have enough money to...)
Remember to practice using these phrases and adjust them to fit different contexts. With time, you'll become comfortable using "afford" in Spanish!
