Using [preposition] + lo que = with, for, on + what (relative pronouns)

Written by qualified Spanish expert Silvia Piriz BA
Last updated: 2024-11-06
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Learn how to use preposition + lo que in Spanish

To introduce a clause with [preposition] + what in Spanish use the following:

[con, para, en, de, por, a ...] + lo que + [clause]

Read and listen to these examples:

En lo que a mí respecta, no tengo más preguntas.As far as I am concerned, I don't have any more questions.

Ten cuidado con lo que deseas.Be careful what you wish for.

Para lo que vale la pena, es mejor no enfadarse.For what it's worth, it is better not to get angry.

No sé de lo que hablas.I don't know what you are talking about.

Se enfadó por lo que le dije el otro día.She became cross because of what I said to her the other day.

Nunca pones atención a lo que te digo.You never pay attention to what I say.

ATTENTION: 

You can never place the preposition at the end of the clause like in English:

 Ten cuidado lo que deseas con.  / Ten cuidado con lo que deseas.
 Be careful what you wish for.
Lo que without a preposition expresses what/which when referring to a whole previous idea or sentence. See Using lo que = what, which, that which, the thing that (Spanish relative pronouns).

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Examples and resources

Estoy aquí para lo que necesites.I'm here if you need anything.
(Literally: I am here for what you need.)
Una elección presidencial debe celebrarse con lo que se dispone en la ley.A presidential election must be carried out in accordance with the law.
Se enfadó por lo que le dije el otro día.She became cross because of what I said to her the other day.
No sé de lo que hablas.I don't know what you are talking about.
Nunca pones atención a lo que te digo.You never pay attention to what I say.
Ten cuidado con lo que deseas.Be careful what you wish for.
Para lo que vale la pena, es mejor no enfadarse.For what it's worth, it is better not to get angry.
En lo que a mí respecta, no tengo más preguntas.As far as I am concerned, I don't have any more questions.
Es fundamental centrarse en lo que verdaderamente importa.It is essential to focus on what really matters.
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