Question 1

What is the difference between ser and estar?

Accepted Answer

Both ser and estar mean 'to be' in Spanish, but they're used differently. Ser is used for permanent characteristics, identity, origin, time, and materials (Soy alto - I am tall). Estar is used for temporary states, locations, emotions, and conditions (Estoy cansado - I am tired).

Question 2

When do I use preterite vs imperfect in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

The preterite (pretérito) is used for completed actions with a clear beginning/end (Ayer comí pizza - Yesterday I ate pizza). The imperfect (imperfecto) is used for ongoing past actions, descriptions, habits, and background information (Cuando era niño, jugaba mucho - When I was a child, I used to play a lot).

Question 3

How do I use the Spanish subjunctive?

Accepted Answer

The subjunctive mood is used to express wishes, doubts, emotions, and hypothetical situations. It's triggered by certain phrases like 'quiero que' (I want that), 'espero que' (I hope that), 'dudo que' (I doubt that), and 'es importante que' (it's important that). Example: Quiero que vengas (I want you to come).

Question 4

What are the main Spanish verb tenses I need to learn?

Accepted Answer

The essential Spanish tenses are: Present (presente) for current actions, Preterite (pretérito) for completed past actions, Imperfect (imperfecto) for ongoing past actions, Future (futuro) for future events, Conditional (condicional) for hypothetical situations, and Present Subjunctive (subjuntivo) for wishes and doubts.

Spanish Grammar Guide

Jump to Section

Articles & Gender

Ser vs Estar

Present Tense

Subject Pronouns

Forming Questions

Negation

Object Pronouns

Reflexive Verbs

Por vs Para

Gustar & Similar Verbs

Preterite Tense

Imperfect Tense

Preterite vs Imperfect

Future & Conditional

Commands (Imperative)

Subjunctive: Introduction

Subjunctive Triggers (WEIRDO)

Subjunctive in Clauses

If Clauses (Conditionals)

Perfect Tenses

Passive Voice

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