Spanish Phrase
Intento hacerlo tres veces a la semana.
Meaning
This phrase expresses an intention to perform an action with a specific frequency. 'Intento' means 'I try', 'hacerlo' means 'to do it', and 'tres veces a la semana' specifies 'three times a week'. It's a common way to talk about routines or habits.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to describe a regular activity you attempt to do, but perhaps don't always succeed at, or when you're setting a goal for a routine. It's perfect for discussing exercise, hobbies, or chores.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Intentohacerlotres vecesa la semana
Intento (from intentar)
This is the first-person singular conjugation of the verb 'intentar' (to try). It's followed by an infinitive verb (like 'hacer') to express what one is trying to do.
hacerlo
'Hacer' means 'to do' or 'to make'. The pronoun 'lo' (it) is attached to the infinitive, indicating that the action refers to a previously mentioned or understood object/activity.
tres veces
'Veces' means 'times'. This is a common way to express how many occurrences of an action. The number 'tres' (three) precedes it.
a la semana
This phrase means 'a week' or 'per week'. The preposition 'a' is used to indicate frequency within a period of time, such as 'al día' (a day) or 'al mes' (a month).
🗨In Conversation
¿Con qué frecuencia vas al gimnasio?
How often do you go to the gym?
Intento hacerlo tres veces a la semana.
I try to do it three times a week.
✕Common Mistakes
Yo intento hacer tres veces a la semana.
The pronoun 'lo' (it) is missing. When 'hacer' refers to a previously mentioned action or object, 'lo' is needed. It should be 'hacerlo'.
Intento hacer tres veces por la semana.
When expressing frequency per unit of time, use 'a la' (a week, a day, a month) not 'por la'.
Intento lo hacer tres veces a la semana.
When a pronoun like 'lo' is attached to an infinitive, it usually comes after and is attached to the infinitive itself, forming 'hacerlo'.
↔Alternatives
Lo hago tres veces por semana.
I do it three times per week.
Mi objetivo es hacerlo tres veces a la semana.
My goal is to do it three times a week.
Suelo hacerlo tres veces a la semana.
I usually do it three times a week.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish-speaking cultures, discussing personal routines and habits is common and generally well-received. People often share their efforts to maintain healthy habits or learn new skills. Using this phrase shows commitment and can be a good conversation starter about personal goals.