'Sobre' vs. 'En'

'Sobre' means 'on top of' something. It's similar to 'en' (on/in), but 'sobre' makes it extra clear that the object is resting on the surface. 'El gato está sobre el coche' means the cat is on top of the car.

Using 'sobre' for Location

When you want to say 'about' a topic, like in a book or conversation, 'sobre' is a great choice. You can often use 'de' in the same way, but 'sobre' sounds a little more specific. For example, 'un libro sobre piratas' (a book about pirates).

Using 'sobre' for Topics

Using 'sobre' instead of 'de' when talking about a topic can make you sound more precise, especially in writing. 'Un documental sobre la naturaleza' feels slightly more formal than 'un documental de la naturaleza'.

Sounding More Specific

Extremely common. This is one of the first words you'll learn and use constantly.

Remember that 'sobre' is a masculine word, so you always use 'el sobre' for 'the envelope' and 'un sobre' for 'an envelope'.

It's a Masculine Noun

Keep an ear out for 'sobre' used for small packets. It's very common to ask for 'un sobre de ketchup' at a restaurant or to buy 'un sobre de sopa' (a packet of soup mix) at the store.

More Than Just for Letters

Very common, especially in contexts like post offices, offices, or sending mail.

Confusing with Other 'sobre's

This 'sobre' isn't a word you use by itself. It's a special form of the verb 'sobrar' (to be left over) used to express wishes, doubts, or possibilities. You'll see it after phrases like 'espero que...' (I hope that...) or 'no creo que...' (I don't think that...).

Not a Standalone Word

Rare. You will encounter this mainly in advanced texts or specific grammatical structures.

Learn the multiple meanings of the Spanish word 'sobre'. Understand how to use 'sobre' as 'on', 'about' (preposition) and 'envelope' (noun) with examples, grammar tips, and quizzes.

sobre

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

preterite

imperfect

future

conditional

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

affirmative

negative

Practice Conjugations