Spanish Phrase
Acerca tu tarjeta al lector.
Meaning
The sentence is a direct instruction telling someone to bring their card close to the card‑reading device. It’s the kind of wording you’ll see on ticket gates, ATMs, or any kiosk that requires a card swipe or tap.
When to use
Use this phrase on public transport stations, parking meters, vending machines, or any situation where a user must present a card to a reader. It works well on signage, spoken instructions, or in a quick verbal cue.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Acercatutarjetaallector
Imperative (tú) of -ar verbs
For regular -ar verbs, the informal affirmative command drops the -ar and adds -a (acercar → acerca).
Possessive adjective (tu)
Use 'tu' (no accent) before a noun to indicate ownership; 'tú' with accent is the pronoun 'you'.
Contraction 'al'
'Al' is the contraction of the preposition 'a' + the masculine singular article 'el'.
Noun gender
'Tarjeta' is feminine, but the article contracts with the masculine 'lector' (the device).
🗨In Conversation
Acerca tu tarjeta al lector.
Bring your card close to the reader.
¿Ya funcionó?
Did it work?
✕Common Mistakes
Acércate tu tarjeta al lector.
The reflexive '-te' makes it mean 'bring yourself' instead of the card; the correct form is just 'Acerca'.
Acerca tu tarjeta a el lector.
The preposition and article must contract to 'al'.
Acerca tú tarjeta al lector.
Use 'tu' (no accent) as a possessive adjective; 'tú' is a pronoun.
↔Alternatives
Pasa tu tarjeta por el lector.
Swipe your card through the reader.
Acerca la tarjeta al lector.
Bring the card close to the reader.
Acérquese su tarjeta al lector.
Please bring your card close to the reader. (formal)
Cultural Tip
In Spanish‑speaking countries, signage often uses the informal imperative for quick actions, even in public spaces. If you need to be polite or address strangers formally, switch to the formal command: 'Acérquese su tarjeta al lector.' Also, remember that 'acerca' is not the same as 'acerca de' (which means 'about').