Spanish Phrase
Está a nombre de Smith.
Meaning
The sentence states that something (usually a bank account, property, or document) is registered under the name of Smith. It emphasizes the legal or official holder of the item.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to confirm or explain whose name an account, contract, or asset is under, especially in formal or administrative contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
EstáanombredeSmith
Estar (está)
The verb 'estar' is used for temporary states or locations; here it indicates the current ownership status.
a nombre de
The construction 'a nombre de' means 'in the name of' and is used to specify whose name something is registered under.
de + proper noun
The preposition 'de' introduces the owner’s name; proper nouns are not preceded by an article.
🗨In Conversation
¿A quién está a nombre la cuenta bancaria?
Whose name is the bank account under?
Está a nombre de Smith.
It's in Smith's name.
✕Common Mistakes
Es a nombre de Smith.
Use 'está' (temporary state) instead of 'es' (essential characteristic) for ownership status.
Está a nombre del Smith.
Do not use the article 'el' before a proper name in this construction.
Está a nombre de Smiths.
Keep the proper noun unchanged; do not add an 's' for plural.
↔Alternatives
La cuenta está a nombre de Smith.
The account is in Smith's name.
Está registrada a nombre de Smith.
It is registered in Smith's name.
El documento está a nombre de Smith.
The document is in Smith's name.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries, the phrase 'a nombre de' is common in legal and banking language. It is more formal than simply saying 'de Smith' and signals official registration. Be aware that in some regions people might also say 'a nombre de' followed by the full name, e.g., 'a nombre de Juan Pérez'.