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Category: Spanish – Intermediate
Welcome to the Spanish – Intermediate section of My Language Classes! 🚀
This section is designed for learners who already know the basics and are ready to level up their Spanish skills. If you can form simple sentences, hold short conversations, and understand basic grammar—you’re in the right place!
Here, you’ll find:
Intermediate grammar lessons (like past tenses, reflexive verbs, and prepositions)
Rich vocabulary to expand your range of expression
Common idioms and expressions used in real-life conversations
Practice activities to build fluency and confidence
Listening and reading exercises to boost comprehension
These lessons will help bridge the gap between beginner and advanced, getting you closer to natural, confident communication—whether you’re preparing for DELE B1/B2 or just want to speak like a native.
Keep learning, stay curious, and let’s grow your Spanish together. ¡Vamos al siguiente nivel! 🇪🇸✨
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Understanding the Passive Voice in Spanish
How to Use “Ser” + Past Participle in Spanish
Are you struggling to understand how to use the passive voice in Spanish? Do phrases like “La carta fue escrita” leave you confused? You’re not alone! Mastering the “ser” + past participle construction can feel tricky at first, but it’s actually one of the most powerful tools for clear, natural Spanish communication.
The passive voice in Spanish is a must-know grammar structure for learners who want to sound more advanced, express actions formally, or shift focus from the person doing an action to the action itself. This structure is used in books, news articles, and real-life conversations—everywhere Spanish is spoken.
In this blog, we’ll walk you step-by-step through:
- What the passive voice is in Spanish
- How it works with “ser” + past participle
- When and how to use it naturally in everyday conversations
- Easy-to-follow grammar rules and lots of examples
- Real-world usage, common mistakes, and helpful tips
- A fun exercise with answers to test your learning
Whether you’re just starting out or brushing up for an exam, this guide will give you everything you need to understand and master passive voice with “ser” + past participle in Spanish—clearly, confidently, and correctly.
Let’s dive in!
What Is the Passive Voice with “Ser” + Past Participle? Explanation and Overview
The passive voice in Spanish is a way to shift the focus of a sentence from who does something to what is being done. It often answers the question: What happened? or What was done? This structure is commonly used in news reports, formal writing, and when the subject is unknown or not important.
At the heart of the Spanish passive voice is this formula:
“Ser” (to be) + past participle
(El verbo “ser” + participio pasado)Just like in English—where we say “The book was written” instead of “Someone wrote the book”—Spanish uses ser + past participle to form these types of passive sentences.
🔍 Let’s break it down:
- Ser: This is the verb “to be.” It must be conjugated to match the tense and the subject of the sentence.
- Past participle: This is the form of the verb that usually ends in -ado or -ido (similar to “-ed” in English). It must agree in gender and number with the subject.
📘 Examples:
Spanish Sentence English Translation La carta fue escrita por Ana. The letter was written by Ana. Los libros fueron leídos en clase. The books were read in class. El coche fue reparado ayer. The car was repaired yesterday. Las ventanas fueron abiertas. The windows were opened. 🧠 Why Use the Passive Voice?
- When the person who did the action doesn’t matter El edificio fue construido en 1995.
(The building was built in 1995.) - When the focus is on the action or result, not the person La decisión fue tomada rápidamente.
(The decision was made quickly.) - When the doer is unknown or obvious El documento fue firmado.
(The document was signed.)
The passive voice gives your Spanish a more refined and formal tone. It helps you write and speak like a native, especially in written texts, storytelling, and formal reports.
Everyday Sentences Using the Passive Voice: 10 Common Examples
Now that you understand the basics of the passive voice in Spanish, it’s time to see how it works in real-life, everyday situations. These examples will help you get a feel for how native speakers use the “ser” + past participle structure naturally in speech and writing.
The great thing is, once you start noticing the passive voice, you’ll realize it’s everywhere—in stores, schools, news, and even casual chats!
Here are 10 common passive voice sentences you might hear or use in daily life:
🔟 Spanish Passive Voice Examples
- La comida fue preparada por mi abuela.
The food was prepared by my grandmother. - Los boletos fueron comprados ayer.
The tickets were bought yesterday. - El examen fue corregido por el profesor.
The test was graded by the teacher. - Las llaves fueron encontradas en la mesa.
The keys were found on the table. - La película fue dirigida por un famoso director.
The movie was directed by a famous director. - El correo fue enviado esta mañana.
The mail was sent this morning. - Los niños fueron recogidos por sus padres.
The children were picked up by their parents. - La puerta fue cerrada con fuerza.
The door was closed firmly. - Las cartas fueron entregadas a tiempo.
The letters were delivered on time. - El pastel fue hecho con mucho amor.
The cake was made with a lot of love.
✅ Quick Tip:
Notice how the verb “ser” changes based on the tense and the subject (singular/plural), and how the past participle agrees with the subject in gender and number:
- Fue (singular) vs. Fueron (plural)
- Preparado / preparada / preparados / preparadas
By practicing sentences like these, you’ll train your ear and mind to recognize and use the Spanish passive voice more confidently. Keep these examples handy, or even better—try turning your own daily routines into passive sentences!
When to Use the Passive Voice in Spanish: All the Key Situations
Understanding when to use the passive voice with “ser” + past participle is just as important as knowing how to form it. The passive voice is not used in every sentence—it’s used with a purpose. Below are the main situations where this grammar structure is used naturally and correctly in Spanish.
📌 Key Situations for Using the Passive Voice in Spanish
1. ✅ When the person doing the action is unknown
Sometimes we don’t know who did something—and that’s okay! Spanish uses the passive voice to focus on the action, not the doer.
La ventana fue rota.
(The window was broken.)
We don’t know who broke it!
2. ✅ When the person doing the action is unimportant
In many formal or informational contexts, who did something is less important than what was done.
La carretera fue construida en 2001.
(The highway was built in 2001.)
3. ✅ When you want to sound formal or objective
This is common in news reports, academic writing, instructions, or official announcements.
La ley fue aprobada por el Congreso.
(The law was approved by Congress.)
4. ✅ When writing or speaking in a professional or academic tone
The passive voice is often preferred in scientific reports, school projects, or business presentations.
El informe fue revisado por el comité.
(The report was reviewed by the committee.)
5. ✅ When the result of the action is more important than the person doing it
If the end result is your focus, rather than the person performing the action, the passive voice is the perfect choice.
Los resultados fueron publicados en línea.
(The results were published online.)
6. ✅ To shift focus or emphasize the subject receiving the action
This is a powerful tool when you want to highlight the object of an action instead of the agent.
El premio fue ganado por la estudiante más joven.
(The prize was won by the youngest student.)
🧠 Remember:
- Passive voice is not as common in everyday conversation as in written or formal language.
- Spanish often prefers active voice or reflexive structures, but “ser” + past participle is ideal for certain contexts like those above.
- By knowing when to use the passive voice in Spanish, you’ll make your communication more accurate, clear, and natural—especially in settings that require more formal or descriptive language.
Conjugation Rules for Using “Ser” + Past Participle in the Passive Voice
To use the passive voice correctly in Spanish, you need to conjugate the verb “ser” to match the tense and the subject of your sentence. Then, you pair it with the past participle of the main verb, which must agree in gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural) with the subject.
Let’s break this down step by step, so it’s easy to follow.
🧱 Step 1: Conjugate “Ser” in the Needed Tense
Here are the most commonly used tenses for ser in the passive voice:
Tense “Ser” Conjugation (Singular) “Ser” Conjugation (Plural) Present es son Preterite fue fueron Imperfect era eran Future será serán Conditional sería serían Present Perfect ha sido han sido ✔️ Tip: The preterite is the most common tense used in the passive voice for past events.
🧱 Step 2: Add the Past Participle of the Main Verb
The past participle is usually formed like this:
- AR verbs → -ado
- hablar → hablado (spoken)
- ER / IR verbs → -ido
- comer → comido (eaten)
- vivir → vivido (lived)
⚠️ Don’t forget! The past participle must agree with the subject:
- Masculine singular → -ado / -ido
- El libro fue escrito.
- Feminine singular → -ada / -ida
- La carta fue escrita.
- Masculine plural → -ados / -idos
- Los libros fueron escritos.
- Feminine plural → -adas / -idas
- Las cartas fueron escritas.
📚 Conjugation Examples
Let’s see how it all fits together with real examples across different tenses:
✔️ Preterite Passive Voice
- El informe fue escrito por el jefe.
(The report was written by the boss.) - Los correos fueron enviados por Marta.
(The emails were sent by Marta.)
✔️ Present Passive Voice
- La comida es servida caliente.
(The food is served hot.) - Las tareas son corregidas cada noche.
(The assignments are corrected every night.)
✔️ Future Passive Voice
- El paquete será entregado mañana.
(The package will be delivered tomorrow.) - Las cartas serán firmadas por el director.
(The letters will be signed by the director.)
✔️ Conditional Passive Voice
- El proyecto sería terminado en dos días.
(The project would be finished in two days.) - Las decisiones serían tomadas con cuidado.
(The decisions would be made carefully.)
Passive Voice Grammar Rules You Need to Know
Now that you’ve learned the structure and conjugation of “ser” + past participle, it’s time to go deeper into the grammar rules behind the passive voice in Spanish. These rules will help you avoid mistakes and use this structure correctly in real conversations and writing.
Here’s everything you need to keep in mind when forming passive voice sentences.
📘 1. Use “Ser” — Not “Estar” — in Passive Voice
Always remember that the passive voice in Spanish is formed with “ser”, not “estar.”
- ✔️ La canción fue cantada por ella.
(The song was sung by her.) - ❌ La canción estuvo cantada por ella. (Incorrect!)
🔑 “Estar” + past participle is used for describing states, not passive actions.
📘 2. The Past Participle Must Match the Subject
The past participle must agree in gender and number with the subject of the sentence, even though it comes after the verb “ser.”
- Masculine singular: El libro fue escrito.
- Feminine singular: La carta fue escrita.
- Masculine plural: Los informes fueron revisados.
- Feminine plural: Las tareas fueron corregidas.
📘 3. You Can Mention the Agent (Who Did the Action) — But You Don’t Have To
If you want to say who did the action, use the word “por” followed by the agent:
- La cena fue preparada por mi madre.
(The dinner was prepared by my mother.)
If the agent is unknown, obvious, or not important, just leave it out:
- La cena fue preparada.
(The dinner was prepared.)
📘 4. Don’t Overuse the Passive Voice in Informal Spanish
In everyday Spanish, especially in spoken language, the passive voice with “ser” is used less often than in English. Spanish prefers active or reflexive structures in casual settings.
Instead of:
La puerta fue cerrada.
A native might say:
Se cerró la puerta. (The door was closed.)Use “ser + participio” more often in formal writing, news, or when the agent matters.
📘 5. You Can Use Different Tenses Depending on the Situation
Use the right tense of “ser” to express the time frame:
- Present: Es construido — is built
- Preterite: Fue construido — was built
- Imperfect: Era construido — was being built
- Future: Será construido — will be built
- Conditional: Sería construido — would be built
- Present Perfect: Ha sido construido — has been built
📘 6. The Past Participle Always Stays in Passive Form
Even when you change the tense of “ser,” the past participle remains passive in form and keeps agreement rules.
- La casa fue pintada.
- La casa será pintada.
- La casa ha sido pintada.
🎯 You only change “ser,” not the participle form.
📝 Quick Review:
- ✅ Use “ser” + participio pasado
- ✅ Make the participle agree in gender/number
- ✅ Use “por” if you include the agent
- ✅ Choose the correct tense of “ser”
- ✅ Use in formal, written, or objective contexts
By keeping these key grammar rules in mind, you’ll use the Spanish passive voice correctly, clearly, and naturally in any setting.
Important Tips for Using the Passive Voice Correctly
The Spanish passive voice can feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you’re used to more direct or active sentence structures. But with the right strategies, you can learn to use it naturally, confidently, and correctly.
Here are some simple but powerful tips to help you master the use of “ser” + past participle in Spanish.
🧠 1. Focus on the Action, Not the Actor
The passive voice is ideal when the person doing the action is not the focus of the sentence. This helps make your language sound more neutral, formal, or objective.
La canción fue escrita en 1990.
(The song was written in 1990.)
– We care more about when and what, not who.
🔁 2. Practice with Common Verbs First
Start using the passive voice with frequently used verbs, such as:
- escribir (to write) → escrito
- hacer (to do/make) → hecho
- abrir (to open) → abierto
- ver (to see) → visto
- decir (to say) → dicho
- romper (to break) → roto
El correo fue enviado
(The mail was sent)Learning these irregular past participles early will help you avoid mistakes.
⏱️ 3. Choose the Right Tense of “Ser” Based on the Time Frame
Always ask: When did the action happen?
- If it happened in the past: Use fue / fueron
- If it’s happening now: Use es / son
- If it will happen later: Use será / serán
El documento será firmado mañana.
(The document will be signed tomorrow.)
👀 4. Watch Out for Agreement Errors
Double-check that the past participle agrees with the gender and number of the subject:
- La puerta fue cerrada ✔️
- Los informes fueron revisados ✔️
This is one of the most common mistakes—but one of the easiest to fix!
🔄 5. Practice Switching Between Active and Passive Voice
Take an active sentence and try converting it to passive:
- Active: Ana preparó el almuerzo.
- Passive: El almuerzo fue preparado por Ana.
This will help you internalize the structure and build fluency faster.
📺 6. Listen and Read in Spanish
Pay attention to how the passive voice is used in:
- News articles and TV reports
- Instructions and manuals
- History documentaries
- Books and short stories
The more exposure you get, the more natural it will feel to use it yourself.
🎤 7. Say It Out Loud
Practicing out loud helps your brain connect grammar with real communication. Read example sentences and say them slowly and clearly to improve fluency and memory.
Las decisiones fueron tomadas con cuidado.
(The decisions were made carefully.)
✅ Bonus Tip: Make Flashcards!
Create cards with different tenses of “ser” on one side and examples of past participles on the other. Mix and match to practice forming full passive voice sentences.
With these easy-to-remember tips, you’ll start using the passive voice in Spanish more naturally and accurately—whether you’re speaking, writing, or just trying to understand what you’re reading or hearing.
Common Mistakes with the Passive Voice and How to Fix Them
The Spanish passive voice is powerful—but only when used correctly. Many learners make small but important errors when using “ser” + past participle, especially if they’re translating directly from English or forgetting agreement rules.
Here are the most common mistakes Spanish learners make with the passive voice—and simple ways to fix them.
❌ 1. Using “Estar” Instead of “Ser”
Mistake:
El libro estuvo escrito por ella.Why it’s wrong:
The passive voice must be formed with “ser”, not “estar”. Using “estar” changes the meaning and describes a state, not an action.✅ Fix:
El libro fue escrito por ella.
(The book was written by her.)
❌ 2. Forgetting Gender and Number Agreement in the Past Participle
Mistake:
La casa fue pintado. ❌Why it’s wrong:
“La casa” is feminine, so “pintado” must be changed to “pintada”.✅ Fix:
La casa fue pintada.
(The house was painted.)
❌ 3. Forgetting to Include or Misusing “Por” with the Agent
Mistake:
La carta fue escrita Juan. ❌Why it’s wrong:
When you name the person doing the action in a passive sentence, you must use “por” (by).✅ Fix:
La carta fue escrita por Juan.
(The letter was written by Juan.)
❌ 4. Using Passive Voice in Casual Speech Too Often
Mistake:
La puerta fue cerrada por mí. (in casual conversation) ❌Why it’s wrong:
Native Spanish speakers often avoid the passive voice in informal speech. A reflexive construction is usually preferred.✅ Fix:
Yo cerré la puerta.
Or
Se cerró la puerta.
(The door was closed.)
❌ 5. Incorrect Verb Tense of “Ser”
Mistake:
La película es filmada ayer. ❌Why it’s wrong:
The sentence refers to the past, so “ser” should be in the preterite tense, not present.✅ Fix:
La película fue filmada ayer.
(The movie was filmed yesterday.)
❌ 6. Translating Word-for-Word from English
Mistake:
It was given to him → Fue dado a él. ❌Why it’s tricky:
Spanish doesn’t always use the passive voice the same way English does. Sometimes, a different construction is more natural.✅ Fix:
Se le dio.
(It was given to him.)
❌ 7. Mixing Up Past Participles and Infinitives
Mistake:
El proyecto fue completar por el equipo. ❌Why it’s wrong:
“Completar” is the infinitive. You need the past participle, which is “completado.”✅ Fix:
El proyecto fue completado por el equipo.
(The project was completed by the team.)
🛠 Quick Fix Recap:
- ✅ Use ser, not estar
- ✅ Match the gender and number of the participle
- ✅ Use “por” with the agent
- ✅ Pick the correct tense
- ✅ Avoid using passive voice too much in casual talk
- ✅ Don’t translate literally from English
- ✅ Use the past participle, not infinitives
20 Passive Voice Example Sentences for Better Understanding
The best way to truly understand how to use the Spanish passive voice with “ser” + past participle is by seeing it in action. These example sentences cover a range of tenses, subjects, and contexts, so you can recognize how this structure works in real situations.
We’ll include both singular and plural, masculine and feminine subjects—and mix in different verb tenses for full understanding.
📘 Examples in the Present Tense
- La comida es servida caliente.
(The food is served hot.) - Las tareas son corregidas por la profesora.
(The assignments are corrected by the teacher.) - El correo es entregado a las ocho.
(The mail is delivered at eight.) - Las reglas son explicadas en clase.
(The rules are explained in class.) - El coche es limpiado cada semana.
(The car is cleaned every week.)
🕰 Examples in the Preterite Tense (Simple Past)
- El libro fue escrito por Gabriel García Márquez.
(The book was written by Gabriel García Márquez.) - La carta fue enviada ayer.
(The letter was sent yesterday.) - Los regalos fueron abiertos por los niños.
(The gifts were opened by the children.) - Las preguntas fueron contestadas correctamente.
(The questions were answered correctly.) - El contrato fue firmado por ambas partes.
(The contract was signed by both parties.)
⏳ Examples in the Imperfect Tense (Was Being…)
- La casa era construida por obreros locales.
(The house was being built by local workers.) - Los pasteles eran decorados con frutas.
(The cakes were being decorated with fruit.)
🔮 Examples in the Future Tense
- El examen será corregido mañana.
(The exam will be corrected tomorrow.) - Las decisiones serán tomadas por el comité.
(The decisions will be made by the committee.) - La cena será preparada por el chef.
(The dinner will be prepared by the chef.)
🎯 Examples in the Conditional Tense
- El problema sería resuelto por un experto.
(The problem would be solved by an expert.) - Las entradas serían vendidas en la taquilla.
(The tickets would be sold at the box office.)
⏱️ Examples in the Present Perfect (Has Been…)
- El informe ha sido enviado a tiempo.
(The report has been sent on time.) - Las puertas han sido cerradas por seguridad.
(The doors have been closed for safety.) - El museo ha sido renovado recientemente.
(The museum has been renovated recently.)
These examples show how “ser” + past participle helps describe actions done to the subject—not by it. The verb “ser” adjusts to the tense, and the past participle always agrees with the subject in gender and number.
Passive Voice Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise: Test Your Knowledge
Let’s see how well you understand the structure and usage of the passive voice in Spanish using “ser” + past participle. Below are 20 sentences with missing words. Each sentence is written to test your knowledge of:
- Verb tense
- Past participle agreement (gender and number)
- Correct form of “ser”
- Using “por” when needed
👉 Fill in the blanks using the correct form of “ser” and the past participle of the verb provided in parentheses. Some sentences will also require the word “por”.
✏️ Fill in the Blanks
- La novela ________ ________ en 1985. (escribir)
- Los platos ________ ________ por el camarero. (servir)
- El paquete ________ ________ esta mañana. (entregar)
- Las cartas ________ ________ con mucho cariño. (escribir)
- La fiesta ________ ________ por mis padres. (organizar)
- Los boletos ________ ________ en la taquilla. (vender)
- La puerta ________ ________ por el viento. (abrir)
- El informe ________ ________ a tiempo. (terminar)
- Las luces ________ ________ durante la tormenta. (apagar)
- El discurso ________ ________ por el presidente. (dar)
- La tarea ________ ________ por el estudiante. (hacer)
- Las fotos ________ ________ en el periódico. (publicar)
- El documento ________ ________ por el abogado. (firmar)
- El edificio ________ ________ el año pasado. (construir)
- Los errores ________ ________ rápidamente. (corregir)
- La canción ________ ________ por un famoso cantante. (cantar)
- Las ventanas ________ ________ para dejar entrar aire. (abrir)
- El mensaje ________ ________ ayer. (enviar)
- Las maletas ________ ________ por el botones. (llevar)
- El museo ________ ________ recientemente. (renovar)
Check Your Answers for the Passive Voice Exercise
Here are the completed sentences. The correct answers are in bold, and each sentence includes an English translation so you can understand the meaning clearly.
✅ Answers
- La novela fue escrita en 1985.
(The novel was written in 1985.) - Los platos fueron servidos por el camarero.
(The dishes were served by the waiter.) - El paquete fue entregado esta mañana.
(The package was delivered this morning.) - Las cartas fueron escritas con mucho cariño.
(The letters were written with a lot of care.) - La fiesta fue organizada por mis padres.
(The party was organized by my parents.) - Los boletos fueron vendidos en la taquilla.
(The tickets were sold at the ticket office.) - La puerta fue abierta por el viento.
(The door was opened by the wind.) - El informe fue terminado a tiempo.
(The report was finished on time.) - Las luces fueron apagadas durante la tormenta.
(The lights were turned off during the storm.) - El discurso fue dado por el presidente.
(The speech was given by the president.) - La tarea fue hecha por el estudiante.
(The homework was done by the student.) - Las fotos fueron publicadas en el periódico.
(The photos were published in the newspaper.) - El documento fue firmado por el abogado.
(The document was signed by the lawyer.) - El edificio fue construido el año pasado.
(The building was built last year.) - Los errores fueron corregidos rápidamente.
(The mistakes were corrected quickly.) - La canción fue cantada por un famoso cantante.
(The song was sung by a famous singer.) - Las ventanas fueron abiertas para dejar entrar aire.
(The windows were opened to let air in.) - El mensaje fue enviado ayer.
(The message was sent yesterday.) - Las maletas fueron llevadas por el botones.
(The suitcases were carried by the bellboy.) - El museo fue renovado recientemente.
(The museum was renovated recently.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Passive Voice in Spanish
Learning how to use the passive voice in Spanish—especially with “ser” + past participle—can raise a lot of questions. Here are some of the most common doubts Spanish learners have, answered clearly and simply.
❓1. What is the difference between active and passive voice in Spanish?
- Active voice: The subject does the action.
→ Juan escribió la carta.
(Juan wrote the letter.) - Passive voice: The subject receives the action.
→ La carta fue escrita por Juan.
(The letter was written by Juan.)
❓2. When should I use “ser” instead of “estar” in passive voice?
Use “ser” for the true passive voice—to focus on the action being done to something.
La casa fue construida en 1990.
(The house was built in 1990.)Use “estar” for describing states or results, not actions.
La puerta está cerrada.
(The door is closed.)
❓3. Why does the past participle have to match gender and number?
Because in passive voice, the participle acts like an adjective—and adjectives in Spanish must agree with the subject.
La película fue vista. (feminine singular)
Los informes fueron leídos. (masculine plural)
❓4. Can I use the passive voice in everyday conversation?
Yes, but with care. In formal or written Spanish, the passive voice is common. In everyday speech, people often prefer active voice or reflexive constructions.
- Passive: La puerta fue cerrada.
- Reflexive: Se cerró la puerta.
Both are grammatically correct, but the reflexive version is often more natural in conversation.
❓5. What if I don’t know who did the action?
Great! That’s when passive voice is most useful.
Los documentos fueron perdidos.
(The documents were lost.)
– No need to say who lost them.
❓6. Can I use different tenses of “ser” in passive voice?
Yes! Use the tense of “ser” that matches the time of the action.
- Present: es / son
- Past (preterite): fue / fueron
- Future: será / serán
- Conditional: sería / serían
❓7. Is the passive voice common in Spanish newspapers?
Yes! It’s very common in news reports, history books, academic writing, and official documents, where the action matters more than the person doing it.
La ley fue aprobada por el congreso.
(The law was passed by Congress.)
❓8. What’s the difference between passive voice and reflexive passive (se + verb)?
- True passive: Uses “ser + participle”
→ La carta fue escrita. - Reflexive passive: Uses “se + verb”
→ Se escribió la carta.
Both are correct, but “se” passives are more common in spoken Spanish.
❓9. Are all verbs allowed in the passive voice?
No. Only transitive verbs (verbs that take a direct object) can be used in the passive voice.
- Correct: La canción fue cantada. (cantar has a direct object)
- Incorrect: Fue dormido. (dormir is intransitive—you can’t “sleep” something)
❓10. What’s the easiest way to remember how to form passive voice?
Use this formula:
➡️ Subject + form of “ser” + past participle (+ por + agent)And remember:
- Match participle with subject (gender and number)
- Use correct “ser” tense
- Add “por” only if you want to name the person/thing doing the action
Key Takeaways: Passive Voice Summary and Important Points
The passive voice in Spanish using “ser” + past participle may sound tricky at first, but once you understand the structure and practice a bit, it becomes a powerful tool in your Spanish-speaking journey.
Here’s a bullet-point summary of the most important points:
✅ What You Need to Remember
- The passive voice shows that the action is done to the subject, not by the subject.
- La carta fue escrita por Ana.
(The letter was written by Ana.)
- La carta fue escrita por Ana.
- The basic structure is:
➡️ Subject + conjugated “ser” + past participle (+ por + doer) - The verb “ser” is conjugated according to the tense of the action:
- Present: es / son
- Preterite: fue / fueron
- Imperfect: era / eran
- Future: será / serán
- Conditional: sería / serían
- Perfect tenses: ha sido / han sido, etc.
- The past participle must agree in gender and number with the subject:
- La casa fue construida.
- Los libros fueron leídos.
- Use “por” when you want to include who did the action:
- La película fue dirigida por un famoso director.
- The passive voice is more common in formal writing, news, academic language, and official documents.
- In spoken Spanish, it’s often replaced by the reflexive passive:
- Se vendieron las entradas.
- Only transitive verbs (those with a direct object) can be used in the passive voice.
- Be careful not to confuse with “estar + participle”, which describes states, not actions:
- La puerta está cerrada. (It’s closed – state)
- La puerta fue cerrada. (It was closed – action)
💡 Quick Reference Formula
Passive Voice in Spanish = Subject + Ser (in correct tense) + Past Participle (matched to subject) + [por + agent (optional)]
This summary gives you the solid foundation to recognize and use the passive voice like a pro—whether you’re reading, writing, or speaking Spanish.
Conclusion: Mastering the Passive Voice in Spanish | My Language Classes
The Spanish passive voice using “ser” + past participle is more than just a grammar rule—it’s a powerful way to add variety, clarity, and fluency to your Spanish. Whether you’re reading a news article, writing an essay, or describing events with more precision, knowing how to use the passive voice can elevate your language skills to a whole new level.
Remember:
- Passive voice is all about shifting the focus from who does something to what happens.
- It helps you sound more natural in formal settings and understand Spanish more deeply.
- The key is to always match “ser” to the right tense and make the past participle agree with the subject in gender and number.
With plenty of real-life examples, clear explanations, and practice exercises in this guide, you’re now well-prepared to use the passive voice correctly and confidently.
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How to Use ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’
Expressing Wishes and Possibilities in Spanish
Have you ever wondered how to express hope, possibility, or uncertainty in Spanish with native-like fluency? Words like “ojalá,” “quizás,” and “tal vez” might seem small, but they are powerful tools for expressing what might, could, or hopefully will happen. These magical words can change the tone of a sentence, shift it from fact to feeling, and show your inner thoughts and wishes in Spanish—just like native speakers do.
In this blog, you’ll learn how to use “ojalá”, “quizás”, and “tal vez” in Spanish the right way. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune your fluency, this guide will help you speak more naturally, understand native conversations, and express your hopes and possibilities in daily life. We’ll break everything down in a simple, friendly tone, filled with examples, grammar rules, tips, and exercises—all crafted with global learners like you in mind.
These expressions aren’t just important—they’re essential. Mastering them will help you:
- Share what you hope will happen.
- Talk about things that might be true.
- Sound more fluent and natural in Spanish conversations.
Ready to dive in? Let’s start by understanding what these words really mean.
What Is ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ in Spanish? Explanation and Overview
When learning Spanish, it’s important to go beyond just vocabulary and verbs. Some words carry deep meaning and emotion. Three of the most commonly used words to express hope, possibility, and uncertainty are:
- Ojalá
- Quizás
- Tal vez
These words are used every day by native speakers to express ideas like “I hope it rains,” or “Maybe she’s home,” or “Perhaps we’ll go tomorrow.” They don’t just add variety to your language—they make your Spanish feel alive and real.
Let’s take a closer look at what each of them means and how they work:
1. Ojalá – Expressing Wishes and Hopes
Ojalá comes from Arabic and means “I hope” or “Let’s hope.” It’s often used when you really wish for something to happen, but you’re not sure if it will. It’s full of emotion and desire.
- Think of it as saying: “Hopefully,” “If only,” or “God willing.”
- Often used with the subjunctive mood, especially when talking about the future or things that are uncertain.
📌 Example:
Ojalá llueva mañana. – I hope it rains tomorrow.
2. Quizás – Expressing Possibility or Uncertainty
Quizás means “maybe” or “perhaps.” It’s used when something might happen or could be true, but you’re unsure. It introduces doubt or possibility into a sentence.
- Can be followed by either the indicative or subjunctive mood, depending on how certain or uncertain the speaker feels.
📌 Example:
Quizás ella está en casa. – Maybe she’s at home.
Quizás ella esté en casa. – Perhaps she’s at home. (less certain)
3. Tal vez – Another Way to Say “Maybe”
Tal vez is very similar to quizás and also means “maybe” or “perhaps.” It’s often used in the same way and in similar situations. In fact, in many sentences, you can swap quizás and tal vez without changing the meaning.
- Like quizás, it can be followed by either the indicative or the subjunctive mood.
📌 Example:
Tal vez vamos al cine. – Maybe we’re going to the movies.
Tal vez vayamos al cine. – Maybe we’ll go to the movies. (less certain)
Quick Comparison
Word English Meaning Mood Usually Used Function Ojalá I hope / Hopefully Subjunctive Strong wish or hope Quizás Maybe / Perhaps Indicative or Subjunctive Possibility or doubt Tal vez Maybe / Perhaps Indicative or Subjunctive Possibility or doubt These three little words can open up a whole new way of expressing yourself in Spanish. They show that you’re not just translating from English—you’re thinking in Spanish.
Everyday Sentences Using ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’: 10 Common Examples
Let’s bring these words to life with real, everyday Spanish sentences. Seeing them in action will help you understand when and how to use ojalá, quizás, and tal vez naturally. These examples are simple, clear, and commonly heard in daily conversation.
Each example includes the Spanish sentence, English translation, and the verb mood used (subjunctive or indicative).
🟡 Using “Ojalá” – Expressing Hope
- Ojalá no llueva mañana.
I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow.
→ (Subjunctive – “llueva”) - Ojalá pueda visitarte pronto.
I hope I can visit you soon.
→ (Subjunctive – “pueda”) - Ojalá que ganemos el partido.
Hopefully, we win the game.
→ (Subjunctive – “ganemos”) - Ojalá hubiera estudiado más.
If only I had studied more.
→ (Past subjunctive – “hubiera estudiado”)
🟡 Using “Quizás” – Expressing Possibility
- Quizás ellos tienen razón.
Maybe they are right.
→ (Indicative – “tienen”; speaker feels it’s likely) - Quizás no lleguemos a tiempo.
Maybe we won’t arrive on time.
→ (Subjunctive – “lleguemos”; speaker is unsure) - Quizás esté enfermo.
Maybe he is sick.
→ (Subjunctive – “esté”; possibility, not certainty)
🟡 Using “Tal vez” – Expressing Uncertainty
- Tal vez vamos a la playa hoy.
Maybe we’re going to the beach today.
→ (Indicative – “vamos”; speaker sees it as likely) - Tal vez ella no sepa la verdad.
Maybe she doesn’t know the truth.
→ (Subjunctive – “sepa”; speaker is unsure) - Tal vez cambie de opinión.
Maybe he’ll change his mind.
→ (Subjunctive – “cambie”; hypothetical situation)
📝 Tip:
If the speaker believes something is likely or factual, use the indicative mood.
If it feels uncertain, doubtful, or hypothetical, use the subjunctive mood.
When to Use ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’: All the Key Situations
Understanding when to use ojalá, quizás, and tal vez is key to sounding fluent and natural in Spanish. These expressions are often used in different types of sentences based on intention, feeling, and uncertainty. Let’s break it down by situation.
🟡 When to Use “Ojalá”
Use ojalá when you want to:
- Express a wish or hope about something in the future
👉 Ojalá venga mañana.
(I hope he comes tomorrow.) - Wish for something unlikely or impossible
👉 Ojalá pudiera volar.
(If only I could fly.) - Talk about something you regret or wish had happened differently
👉 Ojalá no hubiera dicho eso.
(I wish I hadn’t said that.) - Say you hope something continues or stays true
👉 Ojalá siempre estemos juntos.
(I hope we’re always together.)
📌 Note: “Ojalá” is always followed by a verb in the subjunctive mood.
🟡 When to Use “Quizás”
Use quizás when you want to:
- Say something is possible but not certain
👉 Quizás ella sabe la respuesta.
(Maybe she knows the answer.) - Show doubt or hesitation
👉 Quizás no funcione ese plan.
(Maybe that plan won’t work.) - Express a guess or assumption
👉 Quizás está ocupado.
(Maybe he’s busy.) - Talk about future uncertainty
👉 Quizás lleguen tarde.
(Maybe they’ll arrive late.)
📌 Grammar Tip:
- Use the indicative when the speaker believes the action is likely.
- Use the subjunctive when there’s doubt or low certainty.
🟡 When to Use “Tal vez”
Use tal vez in similar ways to “quizás”:
- Express uncertainty or a soft suggestion
👉 Tal vez deberías descansar.
(Maybe you should rest.) - Guess what someone might be doing or thinking
👉 Tal vez está en casa.
(Maybe she’s at home.) - Indicate possible future action
👉 Tal vez vayamos al parque.
(Maybe we’ll go to the park.) - Talk about possible past situations
👉 Tal vez se olvidó de llamar.
(Maybe he forgot to call.)
📌 Grammar Tip:
- Like “quizás,” it works with either indicative or subjunctive depending on how sure or unsure you are.
🧠 Quick Recap: Key Usage Situations
Expression Use it when you want to… Mood Used Ojalá Express hope, wishes, or regrets Always subjunctive Quizás Show doubt, possibility, or mild certainty Indicative/Subjunctive Tal vez Express possibility, uncertainty, soft ideas Indicative/Subjunctive
Conjugation Rules for ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’
When you use ojalá, quizás, or tal vez, the verb that follows is often in the subjunctive mood—but not always! Knowing which verb form to use depends on the level of certainty or wishfulness you’re expressing. This section will guide you through the most common conjugation patterns for these expressions.
🟡 Ojalá + Subjunctive (Always)
Whenever you use ojalá, the verb that follows must always be in the subjunctive mood, no matter the tense.
🔹 Present Subjunctive (for future hope)
- Ojalá tú vengas temprano.
(I hope you come early.)
Conjugation pattern:
Present tense root + subjunctive ending- Hablar → hable, hables, hable…
- Comer → coma, comas, coma…
- Vivir → viva, vivas, viva…
🔹 Imperfect Subjunctive (for unreal or unlikely wishes)
- Ojalá tuviera más tiempo.
(I wish I had more time.)
Conjugation pattern:
Third person plural preterite form → drop -ron → add -ra/-se endings- Tener → tuviera / tuviese
- Ser → fuera / fuese
🔹 Past Perfect Subjunctive (for regrets about the past)
- Ojalá no hubiera dicho eso.
(I wish I hadn’t said that.)
Conjugation pattern:
Ojalá + hubiera + past participle- Hacer → hubiera hecho
- Ver → hubiera visto
🟡 Quizás and Tal vez + Indicative OR Subjunctive
These two expressions are more flexible. The verb form depends on how certain or uncertain the speaker is.
🔹 Use Indicative when the speaker is more certain or confident
- Tal vez ella viene mañana.
(Maybe she’s coming tomorrow.) - Quizás tienen razón.
(Maybe they are right.)
Conjugation: Use regular present or past indicative forms.
🔹 Use Subjunctive when the speaker is uncertain or doubtful
- Quizás llueva más tarde.
(Maybe it’ll rain later.) - Tal vez no sepa la respuesta.
(Maybe he doesn’t know the answer.)
Conjugation pattern:
Follow the present subjunctive form- Llover → llueva
- Saber → sepa
🔁 Quick Conjugation Guide
Expression Mood Required Examples Ojalá Always subjunctive Ojalá gane, Ojalá tuviera, Ojalá hubiera ido Quizás Indicative (likely) / Subjunctive (uncertain) Quizás viene / Quizás venga Tal vez Indicative (likely) / Subjunctive (uncertain) Tal vez está / Tal vez esté
✨ Helpful Tips
- When in doubt, subjunctive is the safer choice with all three.
- The tense of the subjunctive (present, imperfect, past perfect) reflects the time and degree of reality of the action.
- “Ojalá que” and “ojalá” mean the same thing—“que” is optional and does not change the verb form.
‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ Grammar Rules You Need to Know
These three expressions — ojalá, quizás, and tal vez — are all about expressing hope, doubt, and possibility in Spanish. But they follow very specific grammar rules. Learning these rules will help you avoid common mistakes and use each word naturally and confidently in real-life conversations.
Let’s break down the must-know grammar rules for each one.
🟡 Grammar Rules for “Ojalá”
- ✅ Always followed by the subjunctive mood
- Ojalá tenga suerte.
(I hope I have good luck.)
- Ojalá tenga suerte.
- ✅ Can express present, future, or past feelings
- Ojalá gane el premio. (present/future)
- Ojalá hubiera estudiado más. (past regret)
- ✅ “Que” is optional
- Ojalá que llegues temprano. = Ojalá llegues temprano.
- ❌ Never followed by the indicative mood
- Incorrect: Ojalá vienes mañana.
- Correct: Ojalá vengas mañana.
- ✅ Can be used alone for emphasis
- ¡Ojalá! (as in “Let’s hope so!”)
🟡 Grammar Rules for “Quizás”
- ✅ Can be followed by either the indicative or subjunctive mood
- Use indicative when the speaker is confident
➤ Quizás ella viene pronto. - Use subjunctive when there’s doubt
➤ Quizás ella venga pronto.
- Use indicative when the speaker is confident
- ✅ No need for “que”
- Never say: Quizás que ella venga ❌
- ✅ Use with all tenses depending on the context
- Quizás fue un error. (past)
- Quizás esté enfermo. (present subjunctive)
- ✅ Comes before or after the subject/verb
- Quizás él tenga razón.
- Él quizás tenga razón.
(Both are correct and natural)
🟡 Grammar Rules for “Tal vez”
- ✅ Also works with indicative or subjunctive
- Certainty → Indicative: Tal vez están en casa.
- Uncertainty → Subjunctive: Tal vez estén en casa.
- ✅ No “que” is needed
- Correct: Tal vez lleguen tarde.
- Incorrect: Tal vez que lleguen tarde.
- ✅ Can be used in the past, present, or future
- Tal vez dijo eso sin pensar.
- Tal vez diga eso otra vez.
- ✅ Same word order flexibility as “quizás”
- Tal vez lo sepa ella.
- Ella tal vez lo sepa.
📚 Grammar Summary Table
Expression Subjunctive? Indicative? Can use “que”? Mood Depends On… Ojalá ✅ Always ❌ Never Optional Time & wish intensity Quizás ✅ Sometimes ✅ Sometimes ❌ Never Level of certainty Tal vez ✅ Sometimes ✅ Sometimes ❌ Never Speaker’s perception
🧠 Bonus Rule: Tone and Emotion Matter
The verb mood doesn’t just follow grammar—it follows your intention:
- Are you hoping? Use ojalá + subjunctive.
- Are you guessing but pretty sure? Use quizás/tal vez + indicative.
- Are you unsure or expressing possibility? Use quizás/tal vez + subjunctive.
Important Tips for Using ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ Correctly
Using ojalá, quizás, and tal vez in Spanish can feel simple at first, but small mistakes can make your sentence sound unnatural or confusing. This section gives you the top usage tips to help you sound fluent and clear, whether you’re speaking or writing in Spanish.
Let’s explore how to use these expressions like a native speaker!
✅ Tip 1: Choose the Right Verb Mood Based on Certainty
- More certain? Use the indicative.
- Less certain or hypothetical? Use the subjunctive.
Example:
- Tal vez viene mañana. (You think it’s likely.)
- Tal vez venga mañana. (You’re unsure.)
✅ Tip 2: “Ojalá” Always Needs the Subjunctive
Never use ojalá with the indicative. Whether it’s hope for the present, future, or past, the verb must be in some form of the subjunctive.
Example:
- Ojalá me llame hoy.
- Ojalá me hubiera llamado ayer.
✅ Tip 3: Avoid Adding “Que” to ‘Quizás’ or ‘Tal vez’
Unlike ojalá, the other two expressions never take que.
❌ Quizás que ella venga
✅ Quizás ella venga❌ Tal vez que él estudie
✅ Tal vez él estudie
✅ Tip 4: Don’t Be Afraid of the Subjunctive
Many learners avoid the subjunctive because it feels complex. But these expressions are the perfect way to practice real-life subjunctive usage naturally. They’re short, flexible, and used all the time.
✅ Tip 5: Remember You Can Skip the Subject
In casual or poetic speech, Spanish often drops the subject after these words.
Example:
- Quizás llueva más tarde. (Instead of quizás él llueva…)
- Ojalá funcione esto. (Instead of ojalá esto funcione)
✅ Tip 6: These Words Work in Formal and Informal Settings
You can use these expressions:
- In emails: Quizás podamos reunirnos mañana.
- In conversation: Ojalá no llueva.
- In stories: Tal vez el príncipe nunca llegó…
They’re versatile and natural in all registers.
✅ Tip 7: You Can Combine Them for Emphasis
Native speakers sometimes double up for effect:
- Quizás, tal vez, nunca lo sabremos.
(Maybe, just maybe, we’ll never know.)
Use sparingly for style or drama, especially in storytelling or creative writing.
✅ Tip 8: Use These Expressions to Soften Your Opinions
If you want to be polite, these phrases help you sound less direct or harsh.
Example:
- Tal vez no sea una buena idea.
(Maybe it’s not such a good idea.) – softer than directly saying No es buena idea.
Common Mistakes with ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ and How to Fix Them
Even advanced Spanish learners sometimes make mistakes with ojalá, quizás, and tal vez. These words might look easy, but they come with hidden grammar rules that are easy to overlook. Let’s go over the most common errors — and how to fix them so you sound natural and confident every time.
❌ Mistake 1: Using the Indicative Mood with “Ojalá”
Wrong:
Ojalá tengo suerte.
(This uses the indicative “tengo” instead of the required subjunctive.)Right:
Ojalá tenga suerte.
(“Tenga” is the present subjunctive of “tener.”)✅ Fix: Always use the subjunctive after “ojalá.”
❌ Mistake 2: Adding “Que” After “Quizás” or “Tal vez”
Wrong:
Quizás que él venga más tarde.
Tal vez que ella se vaya temprano.Right:
Quizás él venga más tarde.
Tal vez ella se vaya temprano.✅ Fix: Don’t ever use “que” after quizás or tal vez.
❌ Mistake 3: Not Matching the Mood with Certainty
Wrong:
Quizás él vendrá mañana.
(Using future indicative when the situation is doubtful.)Right:
Quizás él venga mañana.
(Using present subjunctive shows uncertainty.)✅ Fix: Use indicative for high certainty, subjunctive for doubt or speculation.
❌ Mistake 4: Confusing Past and Present Subjunctive Forms
Wrong:
Ojalá él vino.
(“Vino” is past indicative, which doesn’t work with “ojalá.”)Right:
Ojalá él hubiera venido.
(This correctly uses the past perfect subjunctive.)✅ Fix: Use past subjunctive or past perfect subjunctive for regrets or wishes about the past.
❌ Mistake 5: Overusing These Expressions
Wrong:
Ojalá venga.
Quizás venga.
Tal vez venga.
(All in one short conversation — sounds repetitive.)Right:
Pick one expression based on the feeling:- Ojalá venga (hope)
- Quizás venga (possibility)
- Tal vez venga (possibility, slightly softer)
✅ Fix: Choose the one that best fits the emotion you want to show.
❌ Mistake 6: Using “Ojalá” with a Known Result
Wrong:
Ojalá ganamos el partido.
(If the game is over and you already know the result, “ojalá” doesn’t make sense.)Right:
Qué bueno que ganamos el partido.
Or if you’re unsure about the outcome:
Ojalá hayamos ganado el partido.✅ Fix: Only use ojalá when there’s still hope or doubt.
❌ Mistake 7: Forgetting That “Ojalá” Can Be Used Without “Que”
Wrong:
Ojalá que ella pase el examen.
(This isn’t wrong, but beginners often think “que” is required.)Right:
Ojalá ella pase el examen.
Ojalá pase el examen.✅ Fix: Remember “que” is optional with ojalá, but never allowed with quizás or tal vez.
✅ Quick Recap Table
Mistake What’s Wrong Correct Form Ojalá + indicative Ojalá tengo suerte Ojalá tenga suerte “Que” after quizás/tal vez Quizás que él venga Quizás él venga Wrong mood with certainty Quizás él vendrá Quizás él venga Wrong past form Ojalá él vino Ojalá él hubiera venido Repeating all expressions Ojalá, quizás, tal vez… Use just one Using “ojalá” after confirmed results Ojalá ganamos Qué bueno que ganamos Thinking “que” is required with “ojalá” Ojalá que ella pase Ojalá pase
20 ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ Example Sentences for Better Understanding
Understanding grammar is great — but seeing it in action is even better. Here are 20 real-life examples showing how to use ojalá, quizás, and tal vez in everyday Spanish. Each sentence comes with a clear English translation so you can feel confident using these expressions in your own conversations.
These examples include different verb tenses, moods, and situations — from daily chats to more emotional expressions.
🌟 Examples Using ‘Ojalá’
- Ojalá me llame hoy.
👉 I hope he calls me today. - Ojalá tengas un buen día.
👉 I hope you have a good day. - Ojalá podamos ir al cine esta noche.
👉 Hopefully, we can go to the movies tonight. - Ojalá no llueva mañana.
👉 I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow. - Ojalá hubieras estado allí.
👉 I wish you had been there. - Ojalá todo salga bien.
👉 I hope everything turns out well. - Ojalá gane mi equipo favorito.
👉 I hope my favorite team wins.
🌟 Examples Using ‘Quizás’
- Quizás ella llegue tarde.
👉 Maybe she will arrive late. - Quizás no sepa la respuesta.
👉 Maybe he doesn’t know the answer. - Quizás hace calor porque el sol brilla mucho.
👉 Maybe it’s hot because the sun is shining a lot. - Quizás vayamos a la playa este fin de semana.
👉 Maybe we’ll go to the beach this weekend. - Quizás fue un malentendido.
👉 Maybe it was a misunderstanding. - Quizás él no quiera hablar ahora.
👉 Maybe he doesn’t want to talk now.
🌟 Examples Using ‘Tal vez’
- Tal vez ella tenga razón.
👉 Maybe she’s right. - Tal vez llueva esta tarde.
👉 Maybe it will rain this afternoon. - Tal vez estén ocupados.
👉 Maybe they are busy. - Tal vez no entendieron la pregunta.
👉 Maybe they didn’t understand the question. - Tal vez puedas ayudarme más tarde.
👉 Maybe you can help me later. - Tal vez me equivoqué.
👉 Maybe I was wrong. - Tal vez mañana sea mejor.
👉 Maybe tomorrow will be better.
Each of these examples shows how mood and meaning shift depending on the verb tense and level of certainty. Practice repeating these out loud and changing the subjects or verbs to create your own sentences!
‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise: Test Your Knowledge
It’s time to put your skills to the test! Fill in the blanks with the correct form of ojalá, quizás, or tal vez, along with the right verb conjugation (subjunctive or indicative as needed). This exercise will help you master expressing wishes, hopes, and possibilities in Spanish.
Instructions:
- Use ojalá, quizás, or tal vez to complete each sentence.
- Choose the correct verb tense and mood.
- Remember the tips you’ve learned about moods and grammar rules.
Fill in the blanks:
- _______ (to rain) mañana, así no tenemos que regar las plantas.
- _______ ella no venga a la fiesta esta noche.
- _______ que tengas un buen viaje.
- _______ (to be) difícil encontrar la respuesta correcta.
- _______ ya están aquí, pero no lo sabemos.
- _______ él _______ (to call) más tarde.
- _______ no me _______ (to entender) bien.
- _______ que nosotros _______ (to poder) ayudarte.
- _______ ojalá _______ (haber) más tiempo para estudiar.
- _______ no _______ (to llegar) a tiempo.
- _______ ellos no quieran salir hoy.
- _______ que María _______ (to estar) enferma.
- _______ ojalá tú _______ (to venir) con nosotros.
- _______ sea verdad lo que dicen.
- _______ él _______ (to tener) razón.
- _______ ojalá no _______ (haber) problemas en el examen.
- _______ nosotros _______ (to encontrar) la solución pronto.
- _______ ella _______ (to saber) la respuesta correcta.
- _______ que mañana _______ (to hacer) buen tiempo.
- _______ ojalá _______ (haber) paz en el mundo.
Check Your Answers for the ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ Exercise
- Tal vez llueva mañana, así no tenemos que regar las plantas.
- Quizás ella no venga a la fiesta esta noche.
- Ojalá que tengas un buen viaje.
- Quizás sea difícil encontrar la respuesta correcta.
- Tal vez ya están aquí, pero no lo sabemos.
- Quizás él llame más tarde.
- Tal vez no me entienden bien.
- Quizás que nosotros podamos ayudarte. (Note: “que” is optional but often omitted)
- Ojalá hubiera más tiempo para estudiar.
- Quizás no lleguen a tiempo.
- Tal vez ellos no quieran salir hoy.
- Quizás María esté enferma.
- Ojalá tú vengas con nosotros.
- Tal vez sea verdad lo que dicen.
- Quizás él tenga razón.
- Ojalá no haya problemas en el examen.
- Quizás nosotros encontremos la solución pronto.
- Tal vez ella sepa la respuesta correcta.
- Quizás que mañana haga buen tiempo.
- Ojalá haya paz en el mundo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’
1. What is the difference between ‘ojalá’, ‘quizás’, and ‘tal vez’?
- Ojalá expresses a strong wish or hope, often with emotional intensity.
- Quizás and tal vez both mean “maybe” or “perhaps,” used to express possibility or doubt.
- Ojalá always triggers the subjunctive mood, while quizás and tal vez can use subjunctive or indicative depending on certainty.
2. Do I always have to use the subjunctive after these words?
- For ojalá, yes, always use the subjunctive.
- For quizás and tal vez, use subjunctive when expressing doubt or uncertainty; use indicative if the speaker feels sure or it’s a fact.
3. Can I use ‘que’ after ‘ojalá’, ‘quizás’, or ‘tal vez’?
- You can use que after ojalá, but it’s optional.
- You should not use que after quizás or tal vez.
4. Can ‘ojalá’ be used to talk about the past?
- Yes! Use the past perfect subjunctive with ojalá to express wishes or regrets about the past.
- Example: Ojalá hubiera estudiado más. (I wish I had studied more.)
5. Is there a difference between ‘quizás’ and ‘tal vez’?
- They are mostly interchangeable in meaning.
- Quizás is slightly more formal and common in writing, while tal vez is often heard in speech.
6. Can I use these words in questions?
- Yes, especially quizás and tal vez, for example: ¿Quizás venga ella? (Maybe she will come?)
- Ojalá is usually used in statements rather than questions.
7. Can ‘ojalá’ be used without a verb?
- No, ojalá must be followed by a verb phrase in subjunctive.
8. Are there synonyms for these expressions?
- Yes, alternatives include a lo mejor (maybe, probably) and puede ser (it could be). However, ojalá is unique as a wish expression.
9. How do I pronounce ‘ojalá’?
- It’s pronounced: oh-ha-LÁ (stress on the last syllable).
10. Is ‘ojalá’ only used in Spain or all Spanish-speaking countries?
- Ojalá is widely used throughout the Spanish-speaking world, from Spain to Latin America.
Key Takeaways: ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ Summary and Important Points
- Ojalá expresses a strong hope or wish and always requires the subjunctive mood.
- Use past perfect subjunctive with ojalá to talk about wishes or regrets in the past.
- Quizás and Tal vez both mean “maybe” or “perhaps” and are used to express possibility or doubt.
- Quizás and Tal vez can be followed by either subjunctive (for uncertainty) or indicative (for likelihood or fact).
- The word ‘que’ is optional after ojalá, but not used after quizás or tal vez.
- Quizás is slightly more formal and common in writing, while tal vez is more common in spoken Spanish.
- All three expressions are versatile and widely used across all Spanish-speaking countries.
- Practice these words with different tenses and moods to gain confidence in expressing hopes and possibilities.
- Remember that these words help add emotion, doubt, and uncertainty to your sentences—key for sounding natural in Spanish!
- Listening and repeating example sentences is the best way to master their use.
Conclusion: Mastering ‘Ojalá’, ‘Quizás’, and ‘Tal vez’ to Express Wishes and Possibilities in Spanish
Mastering ojalá, quizás, and tal vez is a major step toward sounding like a confident Spanish speaker. These expressions allow you to communicate hopes, wishes, and possibilities with natural emotion and nuance—whether you’re talking about the present, future, or even the past.
By understanding their meanings, grammar rules, and differences, and practicing with plenty of examples and exercises, you’ll improve both your fluency and your ability to express yourself clearly in Spanish.
Keep practicing these phrases every day, listen for them in conversations, and try creating your own sentences. Soon enough, using ojalá, quizás, and tal vez will feel second nature!
Ready to take your Spanish skills even further?
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- Subscribe to our YouTube channel My Language Classes for fun and engaging video lessons.
Stay curious, keep practicing, and ¡buena suerte! Your journey to mastering Spanish is just getting started.
📚 Continue Learning Spanish
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Understanding ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’
Verb Phrases in Spanish Explained
If you’ve ever wondered how to say things like “I stopped eating sugar,” “I started studying again,” or “I’m still learning Spanish” in Spanish—then you’re in exactly the right place.
Spanish verb phrases like “dejar de”, “volver a”, and “seguir” are simple but powerful expressions that help you talk about habits, changes, and ongoing actions in everyday conversations. These are called perífrasis verbales or verb phrase structures, and they’re essential grammar tools every Spanish learner needs to master—whether you’re just starting out or trying to sound more fluent.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use these everyday phrases with real-life examples, clear rules, and helpful tips to avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re saying you’ve stopped doing something (dejar de), started again (volver a), or are still doing it (seguir), you’ll soon be able to express yourself naturally and confidently in Spanish.
Let’s dive into these high-frequency verbs and start using them like a native speaker!
What Is ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’? Explanation and Overview
When learning Spanish, it’s important not just to learn verbs, but also the common phrases that come with them. That’s where ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ come in. These are called verb phrases (or perífrasis verbales in Spanish), and they help describe how actions happen over time—whether they stop, start again, or continue.
Let’s break each one down simply:
✅ Dejar de + infinitive
Meaning: To stop doing something
English equivalent: to quit, to stop, to give up- Example: Dejé de fumar. – “I stopped smoking.”
✅ Volver a + infinitive
Meaning: To do something again
English equivalent: to go back to, to do again, to return to- Example: Volvimos a ver esa película. – “We watched that movie again.”
✅ Seguir + gerund (verb ending in -ando/-iendo)
Meaning: To continue doing something
English equivalent: to keep doing, to still be doing- Example: Sigo estudiando español. – “I’m still studying Spanish.”
Why These Phrases Matter
These verb structures are used every single day by native Spanish speakers to talk about actions that:
- Have stopped (dejar de)
- Have started again (volver a)
- Are still happening (seguir)
They help you:
- Express your routines and habits
- Talk about personal goals or changes
- Understand native conversations more easily
- Sound more natural when speaking Spanish
Simple Pattern to Remember
Verb Phrase Structure Example English Meaning dejar de dejar de + [infinitive] to stop doing something volver a volver a + [infinitive] to do something again seguir seguir + [gerund] to continue doing something
Everyday Sentences Using ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’: 10 Common Examples
The best way to learn how to use ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ is by seeing them in real sentences. These examples are taken straight from everyday conversations. You’ll hear phrases like these all the time from native Spanish speakers.
Each example includes the Spanish sentence and its English translation, so you can see exactly how the meaning works.
✅ Examples with “Dejar de” (To Stop Doing Something)
- Dejé de comer carne hace dos años.
I stopped eating meat two years ago. - ¿Vas a dejar de fumar algún día?
Are you going to stop smoking someday? - Mi hermana dejó de estudiar medicina.
My sister quit studying medicine. - Tenemos que dejar de gastar tanto dinero.
We have to stop spending so much money.
🔁 Examples with “Volver a” (To Do Again)
- Volvimos a hablar después de muchos años.
We talked again after many years. - Voy a volver a intentar mañana.
I’m going to try again tomorrow. - ¿Volverás a visitarnos este verano?
Will you visit us again this summer?
🔄 Examples with “Seguir” (To Keep Doing Something)
- Sigo aprendiendo español todos los días.
I keep learning Spanish every day. - ¿Todavía sigues trabajando en la misma empresa?
Are you still working at the same company? - El niño seguía llorando cuando llegamos.
The child was still crying when we arrived.
These simple examples show how these verbs help you talk about real actions, past or present. You can mix them with almost any activity—eating, working, learning, reading, or even relaxing!
When to Use ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’: All the Key Situations
Now that you’ve seen some real examples, it’s time to break down exactly when to use each of these Spanish verb phrases. These expressions are common, but each one has a unique purpose. Knowing when to use them is the key to speaking naturally and correctly.
Let’s explore the different situations for each phrase, with simple examples and explanations.
✅ When to Use “Dejar de” – To Stop Doing Something
Use “dejar de + infinitive” when you want to talk about:
- Quitting a habit
Ejemplo: Dejé de fumar. – I quit smoking. - Ending an activity
Ejemplo: Dejamos de ver la serie. – We stopped watching the series. - Stopping a repeated behavior
Ejemplo: ¿Por qué no dejas de interrumpirme? – Why don’t you stop interrupting me? - Changing lifestyle choices
Ejemplo: Mi papá dejó de tomar alcohol. – My dad stopped drinking alcohol.
🔁 When to Use “Volver a” – To Do Something Again
Use “volver a + infinitive” when you’re talking about doing something again or returning to a past action.
- Restarting something after stopping
Ejemplo: Volví a estudiar después de un año. – I started studying again after a year. - Revisiting old habits or routines
Ejemplo: Voy a volver a correr por las mañanas. – I’m going to start running again in the mornings. - Giving something another try
Ejemplo: Tenemos que volver a intentarlo. – We have to try again. - Resuming contact or communication
Ejemplo: Volví a hablar con mi ex. – I started talking to my ex again.
🔄 When to Use “Seguir” – To Continue Doing Something
Use “seguir + gerund (verb ending in -ando or -iendo)” to talk about actions that are still happening or that continue over time.
- Ongoing actions in the present
Ejemplo: Sigo estudiando cada noche. – I still study every night. - Continued habits or routines
Ejemplo: ¿Sigues yendo al gimnasio? – Do you still go to the gym? - Actions that didn’t stop in the past
Ejemplo: Seguía hablando aunque nadie escuchaba. – He kept talking even though no one was listening. - To show persistence or determination
Ejemplo: Sigue luchando por sus sueños. – He keeps fighting for his dreams.
🔑 Quick Comparison Table
Situation Use This Verb Phrase Example Quitting or stopping something dejar de + infinitive Dejé de usar redes sociales. Doing something again volver a + infinitive Volvimos a salir juntos. Continuing or still doing something seguir + gerund Sigo trabajando en mi proyecto. Each of these verb phrases connects your ideas to time—past, present, or future—making your Spanish sound much more natural.
Conjugation Rules for ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’
To use ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ correctly, you need to know how to conjugate them in different tenses. These verbs work just like regular verbs (mostly), but since you’re combining them with another verb, it’s important to get the structure right.
Here’s how to conjugate each of them in the most common tenses: present, past, and future.
✅ 1. Dejar de + Infinitive
“Dejar” is a regular -ar verb, so it’s easy to conjugate.
📅 Present Tense – “I stop / am stopping”
Subject Conjugation Example Yo dejo de Yo dejo de comer pan. (I stop eating bread.) Tú dejas de Tú dejas de hablar. (You stop talking.) Él/Ella deja de Él deja de correr. (He stops running.) Nosotros dejamos de Nosotros dejamos de pelear. (We stop fighting.) Ellos dejan de Ellos dejan de jugar videojuegos. (They stop playing video games.) ⏳ Past Tense (Preterite) – “I stopped”
| Yo | dejé de | Dejé de estudiar medicina. (I stopped studying medicine.)
| Tú | dejaste de |
| Él/Ella | dejó de |
| Nosotros | dejamos de |
| Ellos | dejaron de |🔮 Future Tense – “I will stop”
| Yo | dejaré de | Dejaré de procrastinar. (I will stop procrastinating.)
| Tú | dejarás de |
| Él/Ella | dejará de |
| Nosotros | dejaremos de |
| Ellos | dejarán de |
🔁 2. Volver a + Infinitive
“Volver” is an irregular -er verb. The stem changes from o → ue in the present tense.
📅 Present Tense – “I do again / I return to”
| Yo | vuelvo a | Vuelvo a intentar. (I try again.)
| Tú | vuelves a |
| Él/Ella | vuelve a |
| Nosotros | volvemos a |
| Ellos | vuelven a |⏳ Past Tense (Preterite) – “I did again”
| Yo | volví a | Volví a correr. (I ran again.)
| Tú | volviste a |
| Él/Ella | volvió a |
| Nosotros | volvimos a |
| Ellos | volvieron a |🔮 Future Tense – “I will do again”
| Yo | volveré a | Volveré a llamarte. (I will call you again.)
| Tú | volverás a |
| Él/Ella | volverá a |
| Nosotros | volveremos a |
| Ellos | volverán a |
🔄 3. Seguir + Gerund (-ando / -iendo)
“Seguir” is an e → i stem-changing verb in the present tense.
📅 Present Tense – “I keep doing / I am still doing”
| Yo | sigo | Sigo estudiando. (I’m still studying.)
| Tú | sigues |
| Él/Ella | sigue |
| Nosotros | seguimos |
| Ellos | siguen |⏳ Past Tense (Imperfect) – “I was still doing”
| Yo | seguía | Seguía trabajando hasta tarde. (I was still working late.)
| Tú | seguías |
| Él/Ella | seguía |
| Nosotros | seguíamos |
| Ellos | seguían |🔮 Future Tense – “I will still be doing”
| Yo | seguiré | Seguiré estudiando mañana. (I’ll keep studying tomorrow.)
| Tú | seguirás |
| Él/Ella | seguirá |
| Nosotros | seguiremos |
| Ellos | seguirán |
🧠 Tip to Remember
- Use infinitives after dejar de and volver a
(Ex: dejar de fumar, volver a leer) - Use the gerund (-ando/-iendo) after seguir
(Ex: seguir caminando, seguir aprendiendo)
‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ Grammar Rules You Need to Know
Understanding how these verb phrases work in Spanish is key to using them correctly. Even though they’re commonly used in casual conversation, they follow very specific grammar rules. Let’s break these rules down in a way that’s easy to remember and apply—whether you’re writing or speaking Spanish.
✅ Rule #1: Use the Right Verb Form + Verb Structure
Each of the three expressions follows a unique structure:
Verb Phrase Structure You Must Follow Example in Spanish English Translation dejar de dejar de + infinitive Dejé de comer azúcar. I stopped eating sugar. volver a volver a + infinitive Volvimos a bailar. We danced again. seguir seguir + gerund Sigo estudiando español. I’m still studying Spanish.
✅ Rule #2: No Article or Preposition Before the Second Verb
Don’t use “el”, “la”, or “de” before the second verb. The structure should be clean and direct, like:
- ❌ Dejé de la fumar.
✅ Dejé de fumar. - ❌ Volví a de correr.
✅ Volví a correr. - ❌ Sigo de leer.
✅ Sigo leyendo.
✅ Rule #3: Follow Gender and Number Only for the Subject
These verb phrases do not change based on the gender of the action or object—only the subject needs to match the verb conjugation:
- Ella deja de hablar. (She stops talking.)
- Ellos vuelven a entrenar. (They train again.)
- Nosotros seguimos trabajando. (We keep working.)
✅ Rule #4: You Can Use These in Any Tense
These verb phrases work with any verb tense—present, past, future, or even subjunctive. Here’s how:
- Present: Sigo leyendo cada noche. – I keep reading every night.
- Past (preterite): Dejaron de ir al parque. – They stopped going to the park.
- Future: Volveré a llamarte mañana. – I will call you again tomorrow.
- Subjunctive (advanced): Espero que no vuelvas a hacerlo. – I hope you don’t do it again.
✅ Rule #5: You Can Add Time Expressions for Clarity
Adding time words makes your sentences even more natural:
- Dejé de correr hace un mes. – I stopped running a month ago.
- Volvimos a salir el viernes pasado. – We went out again last Friday.
- ¿Sigues estudiando todos los días? – Are you still studying every day?
✅ Rule #6: Negative Sentences Use “No” Before the Conjugated Verb
To make a sentence negative, simply place “no” before the first verb (not the second one!):
- No dejo de pensar en ti. – I can’t stop thinking about you.
- No volvió a llamarme. – He didn’t call me again.
- No seguimos hablando. – We’re no longer talking.
These grammar rules are the foundation of using ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ correctly. Practice them a few times, and they’ll soon become second nature.
Important Tips for Using ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ Correctly
If you want to speak Spanish with confidence and sound more like a native, mastering ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ is a must. These little phrases pack a big punch, but they can also be tricky. Here are some simple but powerful tips to help you use them smoothly in conversations, writing, and beyond.
💡 Tip #1: Don’t Translate Word-for-Word from English
These verb phrases don’t always have direct word-for-word equivalents in English. For example:
- “Seguir comiendo” literally means “to follow eating,” but it actually means “to keep eating.”
- “Volver a estudiar” literally means “to return to study,” but it means “to study again.”
✅ What to do instead: Learn the phrase as a full expression, not just as separate words.
💡 Tip #2: Always Double-Check the Verb Form That Follows
This is one of the most common errors! Make sure you’re using:
- Infinitive with “dejar de” → Dejé de fumar.
- Infinitive with “volver a” → Voy a volver a leer ese libro.
- Gerund with “seguir” → Sigo aprendiendo español.
❌ Wrong: Volví a caminando
✅ Right: Volví a caminar
💡 Tip #3: Pay Attention to Stem Changes in Conjugation
Both “volver” and “seguir” are stem-changing verbs in the present tense.
- Volver → yo vuelvo, tú vuelves
- Seguir → yo sigo, tú sigues
Practice these forms a few times until they feel natural when you say them.
💡 Tip #4: Use with Emotional or Motivational Phrases
These expressions are great when talking about personal growth, change, or persistence:
- Dejé de tener miedo. – I stopped being afraid.
- Volveré a intentarlo. – I’ll try again.
- Sigo creyendo en mí. – I still believe in myself.
They’re perfect for stories, life updates, and goals.
💡 Tip #5: Practice with Real-Life Routines
Use these phrases to talk about your daily habits or life changes. Try writing a few sentences like:
- “I stopped drinking soda.”
- “I’m still learning piano.”
- “I want to start exercising again.”
Translate them into Spanish using the structures you’ve learned:
- Dejé de tomar refrescos.
- Sigo aprendiendo piano.
- Quiero volver a hacer ejercicio.
💡 Tip #6: Combine with Other Verbs for Fluency
Once you’re confident with the basics, use them in longer sentences:
- Después de dejar de trabajar, empecé a viajar.
(After I stopped working, I started traveling.) - Voy a seguir estudiando aunque esté cansado.
(I’m going to keep studying even if I’m tired.)
This will take your Spanish to the next level!
💡 Tip #7: Practice Speaking Out Loud
The more you say these phrases aloud, the easier they’ll feel. Try these quick drills:
- “Yo dejo de…”
- “Tú vuelves a…”
- “Nosotros seguimos…”
Mix and match them with different verbs to create natural phrases in seconds.
Common Mistakes with ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ – and How to Fix Them
Even advanced Spanish learners sometimes slip up with ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’. The good news is, these mistakes are easy to fix once you understand why they happen. Here are the most common errors learners make—and exactly how to avoid them.
❌ Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Verb Form After the Phrase
This is the #1 error students make.
- ❌ Sigo a estudiar español.
✅ Sigo estudiando español. (I’m still studying Spanish.) - ❌ Volvimos a jugando fútbol.
✅ Volvimos a jugar fútbol. (We played soccer again.)
Fix it:
- Always use the infinitive after ‘dejar de’ and ‘volver a’
- Always use the gerund (-ando/-iendo) after ‘seguir’
❌ Mistake 2: Translating Directly from English
Some learners try to translate word for word:
- ❌ I stop to smoke → Paro a fumar
✅ Dejo de fumar → (I stop smoking) - ❌ We keep to talk → Seguimos a hablar
✅ Seguimos hablando → (We keep talking)
Fix it:
Learn these as fixed expressions, not just individual words.
❌ Mistake 3: Forgetting Stem Changes in the Present Tense
Verbs like seguir and volver change their stems in the present tense.
- ❌ Yo volvo a leer
✅ Yo vuelvo a leer (I read again) - ❌ Yo seguo estudiando
✅ Yo sigo estudiando (I keep studying)
Fix it:
- Volver → vuelvo, vuelves, vuelve…
- Seguir → sigo, sigues, sigue…
❌ Mistake 4: Using “de” or “el” Between the Two Verbs
This one’s sneaky and common:
- ❌ Dejé de el fumar
✅ Dejé de fumar - ❌ Volví de correr
✅ Volví a correr
Fix it:
Never add extra words between the two verbs unless absolutely necessary. Keep it direct.
❌ Mistake 5: Misplacing “no” in Negative Sentences
The word “no” must go before the conjugated verb, not in the middle of the phrase.
- ❌ Dejé no de hablar.
✅ No dejé de hablar. (I didn’t stop talking.) - ❌ Seguimos no trabajando.
✅ No seguimos trabajando. (We didn’t keep working.)
Fix it:
Always put “no” before the main verb.
❌ Mistake 6: Forgetting the Verb Phrase Entirely
Sometimes students leave out one of the pieces:
- ❌ Volví estudiar
✅ Volví a estudiar
Fix it:
Always include the full phrase:- dejar de
- volver a
- seguir + gerund
🧠 Final Reminder
The more you practice, the more natural these phrases will feel. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—but be sure to learn from them. Practice speaking, writing, and listening to these structures in real contexts.
20 Example Sentences Using ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ for Better Understanding
Now that you know how ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ work, it’s time to see them in real-life, everyday sentences. These examples are designed to help you understand how native speakers naturally use these verb phrases in casual and formal situations.
Let’s break them into groups for clarity:
📌 1–7: Sentences with ‘Dejar de’ (To stop doing something)
- Dejé de comer carne hace dos años.
(I stopped eating meat two years ago.) - ¿Cuándo vas a dejar de fumar?
(When are you going to stop smoking?) - Mi hermana dejó de estudiar medicina.
(My sister stopped studying medicine.) - No dejo de pensar en ti.
(I can’t stop thinking about you.) - Dejamos de ver esa serie porque era aburrida.
(We stopped watching that show because it was boring.) - ¿Por qué dejaste de hablar con Ana?
(Why did you stop talking to Ana?) - Ellos dejaron de usar redes sociales.
(They stopped using social media.)
🔁 8–14: Sentences with ‘Volver a’ (To do something again)
- Volví a ver esa película anoche.
(I watched that movie again last night.) - Vamos a volver a intentarlo.
(We’re going to try again.) - ¿Volviste a llamar al doctor?
(Did you call the doctor again?) - Ella volvió a ganar el premio.
(She won the prize again.) - Volveremos a visitar España el próximo año.
(We’ll visit Spain again next year.) - No quiero volver a pasar por eso.
(I don’t want to go through that again.) - ¿Puedes volver a explicarlo, por favor?
(Can you explain it again, please?)
🔄 15–20: Sentences with ‘Seguir’ (To continue or still be doing something)
- Sigo aprendiendo español todos los días.
(I keep learning Spanish every day.) - ¿Tú sigues trabajando en esa empresa?
(Are you still working at that company?) - Seguimos esperando la respuesta.
(We’re still waiting for the answer.) - Mi perro sigue durmiendo en mi cama.
(My dog still sleeps in my bed.) - Los niños siguen jugando afuera.
(The kids keep playing outside.) - Aunque fallé, sigo intentándolo.
(Even though I failed, I keep trying.)
Reading and repeating these example sentences out loud will help you remember the structure and usage of these powerful phrases. You can even write your own sentences using similar patterns!
‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise: Test Your Knowledge
Fill in the blanks with the correct form of dejar de + infinitive, volver a + infinitive, or seguir + gerund.
- Ella ________ (dejar) de fumar hace un año.
- Nosotros ________ (volver) a estudiar para el examen.
- Yo ________ (seguir) trabajando en el mismo proyecto.
- ¿Tú ________ (dejar) de jugar al fútbol?
- Mis amigos ________ (volver) a viajar a México.
- Él ________ (seguir) aprendiendo a tocar la guitarra.
- Nosotros no ________ (dejar) de practicar español.
- ¿Por qué no ________ (volver) a llamar a tu mamá?
- Vosotros ________ (seguir) viendo esa serie?
- María ________ (dejar) de comer dulces.
- Yo ________ (volver) a leer ese libro porque me gustó.
- Ellos ________ (seguir) corriendo todas las mañanas.
- Tú no ________ (dejar) de pensar en el problema.
- Nosotros ________ (volver) a salir esta noche.
- Ella ________ (seguir) trabajando en su proyecto final.
- ¿Usted ________ (dejar) de usar el teléfono tanto?
- Ellos ________ (volver) a invitar a sus amigos a la fiesta.
- Yo ________ (seguir) estudiando para mejorar mi español.
- ¿Vosotros ________ (dejar) de ir al gimnasio?
- Él ________ (volver) a escribir cartas a sus abuelos.
Check Your Answers for the ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ Exercise
- Ella dejó de fumar hace un año.
(She stopped smoking a year ago.) - Nosotros volvimos a estudiar para el examen.
(We studied again for the exam.) - Yo sigo trabajando en el mismo proyecto.
(I’m still working on the same project.) - ¿Tú dejaste de jugar al fútbol?
(Did you stop playing soccer?) - Mis amigos volvieron a viajar a México.
(My friends traveled to Mexico again.) - Él sigue aprendiendo a tocar la guitarra.
(He keeps learning to play the guitar.) - Nosotros no dejamos de practicar español.
(We don’t stop practicing Spanish.) - ¿Por qué no vuelves a llamar a tu mamá?
(Why don’t you call your mom again?) - ¿Vosotros seguís viendo esa serie?
(Are you all still watching that series?) - María dejó de comer dulces.
(Maria stopped eating sweets.) - Yo volví a leer ese libro porque me gustó.
(I read that book again because I liked it.) - Ellos siguen corriendo todas las mañanas.
(They keep running every morning.) - Tú no dejas de pensar en el problema.
(You can’t stop thinking about the problem.) - Nosotros volvemos a salir esta noche.
(We’re going out again tonight.) - Ella sigue trabajando en su proyecto final.
(She’s still working on her final project.) - ¿Usted deja de usar el teléfono tanto?
(Do you stop using the phone so much?) - Ellos vuelven a invitar a sus amigos a la fiesta.
(They invite their friends to the party again.) - Yo sigo estudiando para mejorar mi español.
(I keep studying to improve my Spanish.) - ¿Vosotros dejasteis de ir al gimnasio?
(Did you all stop going to the gym?) - Él volvió a escribir cartas a sus abuelos.
(He wrote letters to his grandparents again.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’
Here are some of the most common questions learners ask about these tricky but essential Spanish verb phrases:
❓ 1. Can I use ‘seguir’ with an infinitive instead of a gerund?
No. ‘Seguir’ is always followed by a gerund (the -ando or -iendo form). For example:
- Correct: Sigo estudiando. (I keep studying.)
- Incorrect: Sigo estudiar.
❓ 2. Is ‘volver a’ the same as ‘otra vez’?
They both mean “again,” but ‘volver a’ is used specifically with verbs to indicate repeating an action, while ‘otra vez’ is an adverb and can be placed elsewhere in the sentence.
- Volví a estudiar. (I studied again.)
- Estudié otra vez. (I studied again.)
Both are correct, but volver a links directly with the verb.
❓ 3. Can I use ‘dejar de’ to mean “to leave something behind”?
No. ‘Dejar de’ means “to stop doing something,” not “to leave something behind.” For example:
- Dejé de fumar = I stopped smoking.
- Dejé mi libro en casa = I left my book at home.
They’re different verbs and meanings.
❓ 4. Can I use ‘seguir’ in the past tense?
Yes! You can conjugate ‘seguir’ in the past, but remember to keep the gerund form after it.
- Seguí estudiando. (I kept studying.)
- Seguimos hablando. (We kept talking.)
❓ 5. How do I make negative sentences with these phrases?
Place “no” before the conjugated verb:
- No dejo de pensar. (I don’t stop thinking.)
- No vuelvo a llamar. (I don’t call again.)
- No sigo trabajando. (I don’t keep working.)
❓ 6. Can I use these phrases with reflexive verbs?
Yes! Just follow the same rules and place the reflexive pronoun before the conjugated verb:
- Dejé de quejarme. (I stopped complaining.)
- Volvió a levantarse temprano. (He got up early again.)
- Sigo sintiéndome bien. (I still feel good.)
Key Takeaways: ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ Summary and Important Points
- ‘Dejar de + infinitive’ means to stop doing something.
Example: Dejé de fumar. (I stopped smoking.) - ‘Volver a + infinitive’ means to do something again or repeat an action.
Example: Volví a estudiar. (I studied again.) - ‘Seguir + gerund (-ando/-iendo)’ means to keep doing something or continue an action.
Example: Sigo aprendiendo español. (I keep learning Spanish.) - Always use the infinitive after ‘dejar de’ and ‘volver a’.
Incorrect: Dejé de fumando.
Correct: Dejé de fumar. - Always use the gerund after ‘seguir’.
Incorrect: Sigo estudiar.
Correct: Sigo estudiando. - Remember the stem changes in present tense:
- Volver → vuelvo, vuelves, vuelve…
- Seguir → sigo, sigues, sigue…
- Place “no” before the conjugated verb to make negatives:
No dejo de pensar. (I don’t stop thinking.) - These phrases are used a lot in everyday conversation to talk about habits, repeated actions, or ongoing processes.
- Practice speaking, writing, and listening with these phrases to build natural fluency.
Conclusion: Mastering ‘Dejar de’, ‘Volver a’, and ‘Seguir’ to Boost Your Spanish Skills
Understanding how to use ‘dejar de’, ‘volver a’, and ‘seguir’ is a game-changer for anyone learning Spanish. These versatile verb phrases help you express stopping actions, repeating activities, and continuing habits — essential skills for sounding natural and fluent.
With practice, you’ll find these phrases popping up everywhere: in conversations, books, music, and daily life. Keep practicing with real examples, and soon you’ll use them effortlessly.
Ready to take your Spanish to the next level?
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How to Use ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ in Spanish
Learn to Speak Naturally with Spanish Concessions
Are you trying to sound more fluent in Spanish? Want to speak like a native speaker even when expressing contrast, doubt, or unexpected results? If you’ve ever wondered how to say “even though,” “despite,” or “no matter how” in Spanish, then you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll break down three powerful phrases: ‘aunque,’ ‘a pesar de que,’ and ‘por más que’—essential tools for adding depth and emotion to your Spanish conversations.
Whether you’re a beginner learning your first grammar rules or an advanced learner refining your fluency, mastering Spanish concessive phrases like these will take your skills to the next level. These expressions help you show contrast, disagreement, or surprise—things that come up in daily life all the time.
Here’s the good news: they’re easier to use than you think. In fact, by the end of this blog post, you’ll be confident using them in sentences, conversations, and even writing. We’ll look at real-life examples, simple grammar explanations, common mistakes to avoid, and a fun practice quiz to test yourself.
Let’s dive in!
What Are ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’? Explanation and Overview
In Spanish, the expressions ‘aunque,’ ‘a pesar de que,’ and ‘por más que’ are used to show concession. That means we use them to express contrast between two ideas—something that happens despite something else. In English, they often translate as:
- Aunque – even though / although / though
- A pesar de que – despite the fact that / although
- Por más que – no matter how much / even though / however much
These are extremely useful phrases in everyday Spanish conversations because they let you express things like:
- “Even though it was raining, we went outside.”
- “Despite studying hard, I failed the test.”
- “No matter how much I try, I can’t understand him.”
These phrases help you show determination, frustration, or surprise, and they make your Spanish sound more natural and expressive. You’ll hear them in music, movies, casual speech, and formal writing.
Let’s take a quick look at each one:
1. Aunque
- It’s the most common concessive connector in Spanish.
- It can be followed by the indicative or subjunctive mood, depending on the situation.
Examples:
- Aunque hace frío, vamos a la playa.
(Even though it’s cold, we’re going to the beach.) - Aunque llueva, saldré a correr.
(Even if it rains, I’ll go running.)
2. A pesar de que
- Slightly more formal than “aunque.”
- Also expresses contrast or unexpected outcomes.
- Always followed by a verb (not just a noun).
Examples:
- A pesar de que no tenía dinero, viajó a Europa.
(Despite not having money, he traveled to Europe.) - A pesar de que está cansada, sigue trabajando.
(Even though she’s tired, she keeps working.)
3. Por más que
- Expresses frustration or emphasis.
- Usually followed by a subjunctive verb form.
- Shows effort or desire that doesn’t match the result.
Examples:
- Por más que estudio, no apruebo el examen.
(No matter how much I study, I don’t pass the exam.) - Por más que lo intentes, no cambiarás mi opinión.
(Even if you try hard, you won’t change my mind.)
Why These Phrases Matter
These expressions are not just about grammar—they’re about attitude, feeling, and connection. Using them correctly lets you:
- Sound more natural and expressive
- Build more advanced Spanish sentences
- Show you understand how Spanish really works
Ready to see how they show up in everyday life? Let’s explore some real-life sentences next.
Everyday Sentences Using ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’: 10 Common Examples
Want to know how native speakers actually use ‘aunque,’ ‘a pesar de que,’ and ‘por más que’ in real life? You’ll hear these phrases in daily conversations, TV shows, songs, and even in arguments. Below are 10 practical, everyday Spanish sentences using these powerful connectors. Each example includes an English translation to help you understand how the meaning fits naturally into different situations.
✅ Examples with ‘Aunque’ (Even though / Although)
- Aunque estoy cansado, voy a terminar el trabajo.
(Even though I’m tired, I’m going to finish the work.) - Aunque no me gusta el pescado, lo comí por cortesía.
(Even though I don’t like fish, I ate it out of politeness.) - Aunque ella tiene mucho dinero, vive humildemente.
(Although she has a lot of money, she lives humbly.) - Aunque llueva mañana, iremos al parque.
(Even if it rains tomorrow, we’ll go to the park.)
✅ Examples with ‘A pesar de que’ (Despite the fact that / Although)
- A pesar de que no entendía todo, disfruté la película.
(Despite not understanding everything, I enjoyed the movie.) - A pesar de que está enfermo, fue al trabajo.
(Even though he is sick, he went to work.) - A pesar de que no me apoyaron, logré mi objetivo.
(Despite not being supported, I achieved my goal.)
✅ Examples with ‘Por más que’ (No matter how much / However much)
- Por más que grites, no te voy a escuchar.
(No matter how much you shout, I’m not going to listen.) - Por más que lo intento, no puedo hablar como un nativo.
(No matter how much I try, I can’t speak like a native.) - Por más que estudies, si no practicas, no aprenderás.
(Even if you study a lot, if you don’t practice, you won’t learn.)
These examples show how easy and flexible these phrases are once you get used to them. The best part? You can mix them into any type of sentence—formal or informal.
When to Use ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’: All the Key Situations
Understanding when to use ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, and ‘por más que’ is just as important as knowing what they mean. Each one is used to show contrast, contradiction, or an unexpected twist—but they have their own special feel and formality.
Here are the key situations where each of these concessive phrases is used:
🔹 Use ‘Aunque’ When…
- You want to say “even though” or “although”:
- Used for facts, known information, or hypothetical situations.
- Followed by either the indicative or the subjunctive, depending on context.
(Although it’s hot, I’m wearing a jacket.)
(Fact – indicative) Aunque haga calor, llevaré chaqueta.
(Even if it’s hot, I’ll wear a jacket.)
(Possibility – subjunctive) - You’re making a polite contradiction:
- Use it to soften disagreement or show contrast kindly.
(Even though I understand your point, I don’t agree.)
🔹 Use ‘A pesar de que’ When…
- You’re expressing contrast in a more formal way:
- Translates to “despite the fact that…”
- Used more in writing, speeches, or serious conversations.
(Despite studying, he failed the exam.) - You need to introduce a full clause with a verb:
- ‘A pesar de’ (without “que”) can only be followed by a noun or infinitive.
- But ‘A pesar de que’ must be followed by a conjugated verb.
(Even though I had a headache, I went to class.)
🔹 Use ‘Por más que’ When…
- You want to express frustration or limitation:
- Shows that effort doesn’t lead to the desired result.
- Often followed by a verb in the subjunctive.
(No matter how hard I try, it doesn’t go well.) - You’re talking about things that won’t change regardless of effort: Por más que expliques, no lo van a entender.
(No matter how much you explain, they won’t get it.) - You want to sound poetic or dramatic:
- Common in songs, poetry, or emotional speech.
(No matter how much you love her, she won’t come back.)
Summary Table: When to Use Each Phrase
Phrase Use When You Want To… Mood Aunque Express contrast (real or hypothetical); polite contradiction Indicative/Subjunctive A pesar de que Add a formal or written tone to a contrasting idea Indicative/Subjunctive Por más que Show frustration, effort vs. failure, poetic/emotional tone Usually Subjunctive
Conjugation Rules for ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’
Understanding how to correctly conjugate verbs after these phrases is key to using them naturally in Spanish. The good news is, once you know a few simple patterns, everything starts to make sense. Below, we’ll go over the verb moods (indicative or subjunctive), how to choose the right one, and give you examples to show the difference clearly.
🔹 Conjugation with ‘Aunque’
‘Aunque’ is unique because it can be followed by the indicative OR the subjunctive, depending on what you mean.
Mood Use It When… Example Indicative You’re talking about a known fact or something that is real Aunque está lloviendo, salimos. (Although it’s raining, we’re going out.) Subjunctive You’re talking about something hypothetical, unknown, or doubtful Aunque llueva, saldremos. (Even if it rains, we’ll go out.) 💡 Tip: Use indicative for reality and subjunctive for uncertainty.
🔹 Conjugation with ‘A pesar de que’
This one is more straightforward. Like ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’ can also use indicative or subjunctive, but is usually found with the indicative because it often refers to something real.
Mood Use It When… Example Indicative You’re stating something factual that happened despite another fact A pesar de que estaba enferma, fue a la escuela. (Even though she was sick, she went to school.) Subjunctive You’re referring to a possible or uncertain action A pesar de que llegues tarde, te esperaré. (Even if you arrive late, I’ll wait for you.)
🔹 Conjugation with ‘Por más que’
With ‘por más que’, the subjunctive is used most of the time, especially when expressing unfulfilled effort, frustration, or doubt.
Mood Use It When… Example Subjunctive Talking about effort that may or may not lead to success Por más que estudies, no lo entiendes. (No matter how much you study, you don’t understand it.) Indicative (rare) Only used when referring to a completed action or certainty (less common) Por más que trabajó, no ganó suficiente. (No matter how much he worked, he didn’t earn enough.)
🎯 How to Recognize the Right Mood Quickly
Ask yourself:
- Is this something real and known? → Use indicative
- Is this something possible, future, or doubtful? → Use subjunctive
Quick Verb Mood Cheat Sheet:
Connector Verb Mood Trigger Word Types Aunque Indicative / Subjunctive Depends on reality vs. doubt A pesar de que Indicative / Subjunctive Often indicative; subjunctive for hypothetical Por más que Mostly Subjunctive Expresses frustration or limits
‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ Grammar Rules You Need to Know
Once you’ve learned the meaning and conjugation rules, it’s time to lock in the key grammar structures for using ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, and ‘por más que’ correctly in Spanish. These phrases follow very specific grammatical patterns, and learning them will help you speak and write Spanish with confidence.
Below, we’ll break down each connector with its sentence structure and key rules—made simple for fast understanding.
🔹 Grammar Rules for ‘Aunque’
Sentence Structure:
Aunque + [verb in indicative or subjunctive] + [rest of sentence]
✅ Use indicative when:
- The action or fact is real, known, or confirmed.
Example:
Aunque estoy enfermo, iré a clase.
(Although I’m sick, I will go to class.)✅ Use subjunctive when:
- The action is uncertain, hypothetical, or future-related.
Example:
Aunque esté enfermo mañana, iré a clase.
(Even if I’m sick tomorrow, I will go to class.)
🔹 Grammar Rules for ‘A pesar de que’
Sentence Structure:
A pesar de que + [verb in indicative or subjunctive] + [rest of sentence]
✅ Use indicative when:
- The action is a fact or real situation.
Example:
A pesar de que llueve, vamos a salir.
(Despite the rain, we’re going out.)✅ Use subjunctive when:
- The action is not confirmed or is hypothetical.
Example:
A pesar de que llueva, iremos al picnic.
(Even if it rains, we’ll go on the picnic.)
🔹 Grammar Rules for ‘Por más que’
Sentence Structure:
Por más que + [verb in subjunctive or indicative] + [rest of sentence]
✅ Use subjunctive when:
- The outcome is uncertain, or you’re showing effort without success.
Example:
Por más que estudies, no sacarás un diez.
(No matter how much you study, you won’t get a 10.)✅ Use indicative (rare) when:
- You’re referring to a completed or known action (often past tense).
Example:
Por más que intentó, no logró convencerlos.
(No matter how much he tried, he couldn’t convince them.)
🔁 Quick Rule Recap:
Phrase Use With Structure Use When… Aunque Indicative / Subjunctive Aunque + [verb] + result To show contrast between reality or possibility A pesar de que Indicative / Subjunctive A pesar de que + [verb] + result To express contrast with formal tone Por más que Subjunctive (mostly) Por más que + [verb] + result To express frustration or strong contrast
Important Tips for Using ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ Correctly
Using these Spanish connectors correctly isn’t just about grammar. It’s also about tone, context, and clarity. These tips will help you sound more natural, confident, and even fluent when expressing contrast or contradiction in Spanish.
Whether you’re writing an essay or chatting with a friend, the tips below will guide you every time.
🔹 1. Think About Reality vs. Possibility
The most important rule is to ask yourself:
🧠 “Is the situation real or just a possibility?”
- Use the indicative for real facts or known truths.
- Use the subjunctive for things that are uncertain, doubtful, future, or imaginary.
📌 Example:
Aunque está cansado, va al gimnasio. (He is tired, but still goes — real)
Aunque esté cansado, irá al gimnasio. (He might be tired, but will go — possible)
🔹 2. Use ‘A pesar de’ vs. ‘A pesar de que’ Correctly
- ✅ A pesar de is followed by a noun or an infinitive verb.
- ✅ A pesar de que is followed by a full conjugated clause.
📌 Examples:
A pesar de la lluvia, salimos. (Despite the rain…)
A pesar de llover, salimos. (Despite raining…)
A pesar de que llovía, salimos. (Although it was raining…)
🔹 3. ‘Por más que’ Needs Drama or Effort
This phrase adds emotion or a sense of struggle. It’s perfect for:
- Expressing effort that didn’t work out.
- Showing frustration or emotional tension.
- Adding poetic or dramatic flair.
📌 Examples:
Por más que estudié, no entendí nada.
(No matter how much I studied, I understood nothing.)Por más que la ame, ella no va a volver.
(No matter how much I love her, she’s not coming back.)
🔹 4. Avoid Mixing Moods by Mistake
One common issue is starting with an indicative structure and switching mid-sentence to subjunctive. Stick with one tone and mood throughout your sentence unless the situation clearly changes.
❌ Incorrect: Aunque llueve, saldré si esté seco afuera.
✅ Correct: Aunque llueva, saldré si está seco afuera.
🔹 5. Don’t Translate Directly from English
Literal translations like “even if” or “no matter what” may confuse you. Spanish has specific structures that must be respected. Focus on how Spanish speakers express the idea, not just on translating words.
Instead of:
❌ “Even if he has money” → “Incluso si él tiene dinero”
✅ Say: “Aunque tenga dinero”
🔹 6. Start Listening for These Phrases in Songs and TV
Once you’re aware of these connectors, you’ll hear them everywhere in Spanish media. Listening will help you internalize the right tone and context.
🎧 Try listening to:
- Telenovelas
- Spanish ballads
- Podcasts with casual conversation
🔹 7. Practice Speaking Out Loud
Even if you’re studying alone, saying full sentences out loud with these phrases builds muscle memory and confidence.
Try:
- Speaking into a mirror
- Making up situations: “Aunque mañana tenga mucho trabajo…”
- Recording yourself for playback
Common Mistakes with ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ — and How to Fix Them
Even advanced Spanish learners make mistakes when using ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, and ‘por más que’. These little errors can lead to confusing sentences, or make your Spanish sound less natural. The good news? Most mistakes are easy to fix once you know what to watch for.
Below are the most frequent issues—and the simple solutions that will help you get it right every time.
❌ Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Verb Mood
Problem: Mixing up indicative and subjunctive.
- Learners often use indicative when the subjunctive is needed (or the other way around).
- This changes the meaning or creates confusion.
Fix:
✅ Ask: Is the situation real or imagined?
Use indicative for real facts.
Use subjunctive for doubts, wishes, or imagined possibilities.📌 Examples:
- ❌ Aunque tiene tiempo, no va. (Incorrect if you’re unsure if he has time)
- ✅ Aunque tenga tiempo, no va. (Even if he has time…)
❌ Mistake 2: Mixing Up ‘A pesar de’ and ‘A pesar de que’
Problem: Using ‘a pesar de’ before a full sentence with a conjugated verb.
Fix:
✅ Use ‘a pesar de’ + noun or infinitive
✅ Use ‘a pesar de que’ + full sentence with conjugated verb📌 Examples:
- ❌ A pesar de fue tarde, salió.
- ✅ A pesar de que fue tarde, salió.
- ✅ A pesar de ser tarde, salió.
❌ Mistake 3: Overusing ‘Aunque’ for Everything
Problem: Saying ‘aunque’ in every contrast sentence, even when it’s too informal or not quite right.
Fix:
✅ Use ‘a pesar de que’ for more formal or written language.
✅ Use ‘por más que’ when there’s struggle or emotional contrast.📌 Examples:
- ❌ Aunque hizo su tarea, sacó mala nota. (Sounds casual)
- ✅ A pesar de que hizo su tarea, sacó mala nota. (More natural in writing)
❌ Mistake 4: Forgetting the Emotional Tone of ‘Por más que’
Problem: Using ‘por más que’ in dry or factual situations where it’s not needed.
Fix:
✅ Use it for emotional contrast, frustration, or effort that fails.📌 Examples:
- ❌ Por más que está lloviendo, voy a correr. (Too factual)
- ✅ Aunque está lloviendo, voy a correr. (Better choice)
- ✅ Por más que entreno, no mejoro. (Shows frustration)
❌ Mistake 5: Translating Directly from English
Problem: Saying things like “Even if I am hungry” as “Incluso si tengo hambre.”
Fix:
✅ Use aunque or a pesar de que for correct Spanish phrasing.📌 Examples:
- ❌ Incluso si tengo hambre, no como.
- ✅ Aunque tenga hambre, no como. (Even if I’m hungry, I don’t eat.)
❌ Mistake 6: Not Matching Tenses Correctly
Problem: Using the wrong verb tense after a connector.
Fix:
✅ Keep the verb tense consistent with the time you’re referring to: past, present, or future.📌 Examples:
- ❌ A pesar de que llueve ayer…
- ✅ A pesar de que llovió ayer…
✔️ Bonus Tip: Slow Down and Think First
Before writing or speaking, ask:
- What mood should I use—indicative or subjunctive?
- What is the correct phrase—aunque, a pesar de que, or por más que?
- Does my verb tense match the timeline?
Just 3 seconds of thinking will make your Spanish sharper and more natural.
20 ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ Example Sentences for Better Understanding
One of the fastest ways to learn Spanish is by seeing grammar in action. These 20 example sentences will show you how native speakers naturally use ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, and ‘por más que’ in daily life.
Each example includes an English translation to help you follow along, and we’ve included different tenses and verb moods so you can really grasp the variety of ways these expressions work.
🔹 Examples Using ‘Aunque’
- Aunque hace frío, vamos a la playa.
Although it’s cold, we’re going to the beach. - Aunque esté cansado, tengo que estudiar.
Even if I’m tired, I have to study. - Aunque no me gusta el brócoli, lo como.
Even though I don’t like broccoli, I eat it. - Aunque llueva, iremos al parque.
Even if it rains, we’ll go to the park. - Aunque ganó el partido, no jugó bien.
Although he won the game, he didn’t play well.
🔹 Examples Using ‘A pesar de que’
- A pesar de que estaba enfermo, fue al trabajo.
Despite being sick, he went to work. - A pesar de que es tarde, siguen hablando.
Even though it’s late, they’re still talking. - A pesar de que no entiendo todo, me gusta la película.
Even though I don’t understand everything, I like the movie. - A pesar de que llueva, haremos la caminata.
Even if it rains, we’ll do the hike. - A pesar de que no estudió, pasó el examen.
Despite not studying, he passed the test.
🔹 Examples Using ‘Por más que’
- Por más que lo intento, no lo logro.
No matter how much I try, I can’t do it. - Por más que estudies, no vas a entender sin práctica.
No matter how much you study, you won’t understand without practice. - Por más que grites, no te escuchará.
No matter how much you scream, she won’t hear you. - Por más que te esfuerces, no es suficiente para ellos.
No matter how hard you try, it’s not enough for them. - Por más que trabajó, no pudo ahorrar dinero.
No matter how much he worked, he couldn’t save money.
🔄 Mixed Examples (Bonus!)
- Aunque tengas miedo, debes intentarlo.
Even if you’re afraid, you must try. - A pesar de que llovía, salimos a caminar.
Even though it was raining, we went for a walk. - Por más que lo expliques, no lo entienden.
No matter how much you explain it, they don’t understand. - A pesar de que lo sabía, no dijo nada.
Even though he knew it, he said nothing. - Aunque no sea perfecto, es suficiente.
Even if it’s not perfect, it’s enough.
These real-life examples will make it easier for you to recognize, use, and respond to these phrases in Spanish conversations, writing, and exams.
‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise: Test Your Knowledge
Fill in the blanks with ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, or ‘por más que’ and conjugate the verb correctly (indicative or subjunctive as needed).
- _________ (llover) mucho, iremos a la fiesta.
- No me rindo _________ (ser) difícil el problema.
- _________ (tener) sueño, terminé mi tarea.
- Ella salió a correr _________ (hacer) frío.
- _________ (saber) la verdad, no dijo nada.
- _________ (llover), no cancelaron el evento.
- _________ (estudiar) mucho, no pasó el examen.
- Vamos a la playa _________ (hacer) mal tiempo.
- _________ (ser) caro, compré el libro.
- _________ (tener) miedo, entró al edificio.
- No me rendiré _________ (ser) complicado.
- _________ (estar) cansados, seguimos trabajando.
- _________ (querer) ayudar, no pude.
- _________ (nevar), saldré a caminar.
- _________ (tener) hambre, no comí.
- No puedo entender _________ (explicar) varias veces.
- _________ (hacer) frío, no me puse abrigo.
- _________ (trabajar) mucho, no logro ahorrar.
- _________ (llegar) temprano, no me dejaron entrar.
- _________ (estar) enfermo, fue al trabajo.
Check Your Answers for the ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ Exercise
- Aunque llueva mucho, iremos a la fiesta.
(Even if it rains a lot, we will go to the party.) - No me rindo por más que sea difícil el problema.
(I don’t give up no matter how difficult the problem is.) - Aunque tenía sueño, terminé mi tarea.
(Although I was sleepy, I finished my homework.) - Ella salió a correr a pesar de que hacía frío.
(She went out running despite it being cold.) - Aunque sabía la verdad, no dijo nada.
(Even though he knew the truth, he said nothing.) - Aunque llovía, no cancelaron el evento.
(Although it was raining, they didn’t cancel the event.) - Por más que estudié, no pasó el examen.
(No matter how much I studied, I didn’t pass the exam.) - Vamos a la playa a pesar de que hace mal tiempo.
(We’re going to the beach despite the bad weather.) - Aunque es caro, compré el libro.
(Although it’s expensive, I bought the book.) - Aunque tenía miedo, entró al edificio.
(Even though he was scared, he entered the building.) - No me rendiré por más que sea complicado.
(I won’t give up no matter how complicated it is.) - Aunque estábamos cansados, seguimos trabajando.
(Although we were tired, we kept working.) - Aunque quería ayudar, no pude.
(Even though I wanted to help, I couldn’t.) - Aunque nieve, saldré a caminar.
(Even if it snows, I will go for a walk.) - Aunque tenía hambre, no comí.
(Even though I was hungry, I didn’t eat.) - No puedo entender por más que expliques varias veces.
(I can’t understand no matter how many times you explain.) - Aunque hacía frío, no me puse abrigo.
(Although it was cold, I didn’t wear a coat.) - Por más que trabajo, no logro ahorrar.
(No matter how much I work, I can’t save money.) - Aunque llegué temprano, no me dejaron entrar.
(Although I arrived early, they didn’t let me in.) - Aunque estaba enfermo, fue al trabajo.
(Even though he was sick, he went to work.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’
1. What is the main difference between ‘aunque’ and ‘a pesar de que’?
‘Aunque’ can introduce real facts or hypothetical situations, often implying contrast.
‘A pesar de que’ always introduces a fact or reality and emphasizes despite or in spite of something. It sounds a bit more formal or written.
2. When should I use the subjunctive with ‘aunque’?
Use the subjunctive when the information is uncertain, hypothetical, or future.
Example: Aunque llueva mañana, iremos. (Even if it rains tomorrow, we will go.)
3. Can ‘por más que’ be used in formal writing?
Yes, but it is more common in spoken language or informal writing. It often expresses emotional emphasis or frustration.
4. Is ‘a pesar de’ the same as ‘a pesar de que’?
Not exactly.
- ‘A pesar de’ is followed by a noun or infinitive: A pesar de la lluvia (Despite the rain)
- ‘A pesar de que’ is followed by a conjugated verb: A pesar de que llueve (Although it rains)
5. Can I use ‘aunque’ at the beginning or middle of a sentence?
Yes, ‘aunque’ can be used at the start or middle to introduce a contrasting idea.
Example: Aunque estaba cansado, fui a la fiesta. / Fui a la fiesta, aunque estaba cansado.
6. How do I know when to use indicative or subjunctive with these phrases?
If the clause refers to a known fact or reality, use the indicative. If it expresses doubt, possibility, or non-reality, use the subjunctive.
7. Are there any other phrases similar to these in Spanish?
Yes! Others include:
- Sin embargo (however)
- No obstante (nevertheless)
- Aun así (even so)
But ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, and ‘por más que’ are very common for concessions.
8. Can ‘por más que’ be replaced by ‘aunque’?
Sometimes yes, but ‘por más que’ often adds stronger emotional or effort emphasis. ‘Aunque’ is more neutral.
9. Is it correct to use ‘aunque’ with the future tense?
Yes, but often the subjunctive present is used to talk about future uncertainty.
Example: Aunque venga mañana, no estaré. (Even if he comes tomorrow…)
10. How do I practice using these phrases naturally?
- Listen to Spanish songs, movies, and podcasts.
- Read books and articles paying attention to these phrases.
- Write your own sentences or short stories using them.
- Speak with native speakers or language partners.
Key Takeaways: ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ Summary and Important Points
- ‘Aunque’ introduces contrasts and can use indicative (for facts) or subjunctive (for uncertainty or hypothetical situations).
- ‘A pesar de que’ means despite or in spite of and always introduces a fact or reality using the indicative mood.
- ‘Por más que’ expresses no matter how much or even though with strong emotional or effort emphasis and usually requires the subjunctive for hypothetical or future scenarios.
- Use ‘a pesar de’ without que when followed by a noun or infinitive (e.g., a pesar del frío).
- Remember to match verb moods and tenses correctly after these expressions for clarity and natural sound.
- These phrases help express concessions — showing something happens despite obstacles, doubts, or difficulties.
- Common mistakes include mixing moods, incorrect phrase choice, and direct English translations.
- Practice with real-life examples and exercises to internalize usage.
- Listening, reading, and speaking in context greatly improve your comfort with these expressions.
Conclusion: Mastering ‘Aunque’, ‘A pesar de que’, and ‘Por más que’ | Your Path to Confident Spanish
Understanding how to use ‘aunque’, ‘a pesar de que’, and ‘por más que’ is a powerful step toward expressing complex ideas and contrasts naturally in Spanish. Whether you are a beginner or advanced learner, mastering these expressions opens doors to richer conversations and clearer writing.
Remember, the key is to practice regularly, pay attention to verb moods, and recognize the subtle differences that make each phrase unique. With patience and real-life practice, you’ll soon find yourself confidently using these connectors in everyday speech and formal writing alike.
Keep exploring Spanish through reading, listening, and speaking — and don’t hesitate to revisit this guide whenever you need a refresher!
Ready to take your Spanish even further?
- Visit mylanguageclasses.in for more helpful lessons.
- Follow us on Instagram @mylanguageclassesofficial for tips and daily practice.
- Subscribe to our YouTube channel My Language Classes for engaging video lessons.
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How to Use “Lo” in Spanish
If you’ve been learning Spanish and stumbled upon the little word “lo”, you’re not alone in wondering what it really means. This tiny but mighty word shows up in so many different places—lo importante, lo mejor, lo que dijiste—that it can leave even advanced learners scratching their heads. So, what exactly is “lo” in Spanish, and why is it used so often?
Understanding the Spanish article “lo” is like unlocking a secret level in a video game—it gives you access to deeper, more natural expressions that native speakers use every day. Whether you’re just starting your Spanish learning journey or you’re brushing up on grammar, knowing how to use “lo” properly will make your conversations sound more fluent, more natural, and much more confident.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore:
- What “lo” really means and why it’s different from el or la
- Everyday phrases where “lo” is essential
- When and how to use “lo” with adjectives, verbs, and clauses
- The grammar rules and exceptions that make “lo” unique
- Real-life examples and practice exercises to help you learn by doing
This is your one-stop explanation of everything you need to know about “lo” in Spanish grammar, written in a way that’s easy to understand and packed with practical examples. Let’s dive into the world of neutral articles, abstract ideas, and essential expressions with “lo”—and learn how to use it like a pro.
What Is the Spanish Article “Lo”?
The word “lo” in Spanish might look small, but it plays a big role in how native speakers express thoughts, ideas, and descriptions. Unlike “el” and “la”, which are masculine and feminine definite articles for nouns, “lo” is a neutral article. That means it’s not used to describe a specific object or person, but rather abstract ideas, qualities, or unknown things.
Think of “lo” as a tool for turning adjectives, clauses, or verbs into general concepts or neutral ideas. You’ll see it used in phrases like:
- Lo bueno – The good thing
- Lo que dices – What you’re saying
- Lo importante es estudiar – The important thing is to study
Here’s a breakdown to understand it better:
🧠 Quick Facts About “Lo”
- “Lo” is not masculine or feminine—it’s neutral
- It is not used before a regular noun (like lo gato ❌)
- It is used before adjectives, past participles, or clauses to express abstract ideas
- It helps you talk about “the thing that is…”, “what is…”, or “how something is…”
📘 Examples to Understand Its Function:
- Lo mejor de la película fue el final.
The best thing about the movie was the ending. - No entiendo lo que dijiste.
I don’t understand what you said. - Lo difícil no es empezar, es continuar.
The hard part isn’t starting, it’s continuing.
So, when you want to describe something that isn’t a physical object, but rather an idea, a quality, or a situation, “lo” is your go-to word.
Common Expressions Using “Lo” in Spanish
When you listen to native Spanish speakers, you’ll hear “lo” used all the time in everyday phrases. These expressions are super useful because they help you sound more natural and fluent, especially when talking about opinions, situations, or abstract ideas.
Here are 10 real-life example sentences using “lo” that you can start practicing today:
🔟 Real-Life Spanish Sentences with “Lo”
- Lo bueno de vivir aquí es la tranquilidad.
The good thing about living here is the peace. - Lo importante es nunca rendirse.
The important thing is to never give up. - Lo que quiero es ayudarte.
What I want is to help you. - Lo malo de esta película es el final.
The bad thing about this movie is the ending. - Lo que dijiste me hizo pensar.
What you said made me think. - No me gusta lo que está pasando.
I don’t like what’s happening. - Lo mejor fue cuando ganamos el partido.
The best part was when we won the game. - Lo raro es que no contestó el mensaje.
The strange thing is that he didn’t reply to the message. - Siempre valoro lo que haces por mí.
I always value what you do for me. - Lo difícil no es aprender, es practicar todos los días.
The hard part isn’t learning, it’s practicing every day.
📌 Why These Expressions Matter:
These expressions don’t just teach you grammar—they help you express feelings, thoughts, and reactions in a natural way. By using “lo,” you talk about “the thing that…”, “what…”, or “how something is…”, which adds depth to your Spanish.
You’ll often hear these patterns in conversations, books, and even music, so start listening for them!
How “Lo” Works: Structure and Pairing Rules
Although “lo” doesn’t conjugate, understanding how it works with different parts of a sentence is key to using it correctly. This includes what words “lo” can go with, how it forms abstract nouns, and how it functions in complex clauses.
🔧 1. “Lo” + Adjective → Abstract Idea
When “lo” is followed by an adjective, it turns that adjective into an abstract idea, often meaning “the [adjective] thing”.
✅ Structure:
Lo + [adjective (masculine singular form)]
📘 Examples:
- Lo bueno = The good thing
Lo bueno de este trabajo es el horario flexible.
The good thing about this job is the flexible schedule. - Lo interesante = The interesting thing
Lo interesante es que nadie lo sabía.
The interesting thing is that no one knew. - Lo difícil = The hard part
Lo difícil es mantener la motivación.
The hard part is staying motivated.
🔧 2. “Lo” + Past Participle → Result or Quality
“Lo” can be used with past participles to describe the result of an action or an observed quality.
✅ Structure:
Lo + [past participle]
📘 Examples:
- Lo dicho = What was said
Lo dicho por el profesor fue muy importante.
What the teacher said was very important. - Lo hecho = What was done / The done thing
Ya no podemos cambiar lo hecho.
We can’t change what’s done.
🔧 3. “Lo” + “Que” + Clause → What / That Which
This is one of the most common ways “lo” is used in conversation. It introduces a subordinate clause and is often translated as “what” or “that which”.
✅ Structure:
Lo que + [clause]
📘 Examples:
- Lo que me gusta es la comida.
What I like is the food. - No entiendo lo que dices.
I don’t understand what you’re saying. - Haz lo que quieras.
Do what you want.
🔧 4. “Lo” as a Direct Object Pronoun
In some cases, “lo” also acts as a direct object pronoun meaning “him”, “it”, or “you” (formal, masculine). However, this usage is different from the neutral article and belongs to pronoun grammar. We’ll keep our focus here mainly on the neutral article usage.
🧠 Pro Tip:
- The adjective or participle after “lo” must be in masculine singular form, even if you’re talking about something feminine or plural in meaning. Why? Because “lo” is neutral, and the grammar after it follows that structure.
Usage of “Lo” in Spanish: When and How to Use It
In Spanish, “lo” is a powerful word that lets you talk about ideas, qualities, actions, or unknown things without referring to a specific person or object. Below are the main situations where “lo” is used, with easy explanations and examples.
✅ 1. To Express Abstract Qualities or Ideas
Use “lo” with adjectives to refer to general ideas or qualities like “the good,” “the bad,” “the strange,” etc.
🔹 Structure:
Lo + [masculine singular adjective]
📘 Examples:
- Lo bueno de estudiar es aprender.
The good thing about studying is learning. - Lo malo es que llueve mucho.
The bad thing is that it rains a lot.
✅ 2. To Refer to Something Previously Mentioned (Lo + Past Participle)
Use “lo” with past participles to refer to actions or events already done or mentioned.
📘 Examples:
- Lo dicho por el director fue claro.
What the director said was clear. - Lo escrito en el libro es interesante.
What’s written in the book is interesting.
✅ 3. To Introduce Clauses with “Lo que” (What / That Which)
This is one of the most common uses of “lo.” Use “lo que” to mean “what” or “the thing that”.
📘 Examples:
- Lo que quiero es ayudarte.
What I want is to help you. - No entiendo lo que está pasando.
I don’t understand what is happening. - Haz lo que puedas.
Do what you can.
✅ 4. To Emphasize or Generalize a Characteristic
Use “lo” to highlight how something is or how someone behaves. This is often used in literary or poetic contexts.
📘 Examples:
- Lo fuerte que es este niño me sorprende.
How strong this boy is surprises me. - Lo rápido que terminó el examen fue increíble.
How quickly he finished the exam was incredible.
✅ 5. To Talk About How Things Happen (Lo + Adjective + Que)
Use this structure to emphasize the intensity or degree of something.
📘 Examples:
- No sabes lo cansado que estoy.
You don’t know how tired I am. - Lo feliz que estaba no se puede explicar.
How happy she was can’t be explained.
✅ 6. To Express Something in a General, Gender-Neutral Way
“Lo” is perfect when you want to keep your sentence neutral, especially when talking about non-countable or non-specific things.
📘 Examples:
- Lo que necesitas es paciencia.
What you need is patience. - Lo que importa es la intención.
What matters is the intention.
✅ 7. To Form Emphatic or Comparative Structures
In advanced usage, “lo” helps create comparative or superlative statements.
📘 Examples:
- Lo más importante es la familia.
The most important thing is family. - Lo mejor de todo fue el viaje.
The best part of all was the trip.
✅ 8. To Replace an Idea, Action, or Situation as a Neutral Pronoun
Sometimes, “lo” acts like a neutral pronoun replacing an idea or situation.
📘 Examples:
- ¿Estás cansado? Lo entiendo.
Are you tired? I understand it. - No lo sabía.
I didn’t know that.
✅ 9. In Set Phrases and Idioms
Some phrases with “lo” are commonly used and should be memorized.
📘 Examples:
- A lo mejor – Maybe
- Por lo general – Generally
- Por lo tanto – Therefore
✅ 10. As a Formal, Masculine Object Pronoun (Extra Use)
Though this blog focuses on “lo” as a neutral article, remember that “lo” can also mean “him” or “it” when used as a direct object pronoun.
📘 Example:
- Lo vi ayer.
I saw him yesterday. or I saw it yesterday.
🎯 Quick Recap of Situations to Use “Lo”:
- To describe qualities (Lo bueno, lo malo)
- To introduce ideas or clauses (Lo que…)
- With past participles (Lo dicho)
- For generalization or emphasis (Lo rápido que…)
- In idiomatic expressions (A lo mejor)
- To refer back to entire ideas or actions (Lo entiendo)
Grammar Rules for Using “Lo” in Spanish
Understanding how “lo” works grammatically will boost your Spanish fluency. Although it seems simple, it has specific rules that guide how and when to use it correctly — especially since it’s gender-neutral, abstract, and sometimes used as a pronoun.
Let’s break it down step by step with simple explanations and real-life examples.
🧠 Rule 1: “Lo” is Neutral and Only Used with Masculine Singular Adjectives or Participles
“Lo” doesn’t agree with gender or number like other articles (el, la, los, las). It stays the same — always neutral and singular.
🔹 Use:
- Lo + [masculine adjective]
- Lo + [past participle]
📘 Examples:
- Lo bonito = the beautiful thing
- Lo dicho = what was said
✨ You don’t say “la bonita” or “las dichas” with this structure. Always keep it neutral: lo + masculine singular.
🧠 Rule 2: “Lo” Can’t Stand Alone — It Must Be Paired
“Lo” doesn’t function alone. It must be followed by:
- An adjective
- A past participle
- A relative clause (with “que”)
📘 Examples:
- ❌ Incorrect: Lo es importante.
- ✅ Correct: Lo importante es estudiar.
(The important thing is to study.)
🧠 Rule 3: “Lo que” Introduces Clauses — Meaning “What” or “That Which”
Use “lo que” to refer to ideas, actions, or concepts.
📘 Examples:
- Lo que necesito es tiempo.
What I need is time. - No comprendo lo que haces.
I don’t understand what you’re doing.
✅ “Lo que” is one of the most flexible ways to express abstract or unknown things in Spanish.
🧠 Rule 4: “Lo” with Comparatives or Emphasis
“Lo” can be used to express degree or intensity, especially with the word “que”.
📘 Examples:
- Lo mucho que trabajas es admirable.
How much you work is admirable. - No sabes lo feliz que me hace.
You don’t know how happy that makes me.
🧠 Rule 5: “Lo” as a Neutral Pronoun (Referencing Ideas, Not People)
In this case, “lo” works like “it” in English but refers to a situation, idea, or statement — not a person.
📘 Examples:
- Lo entiendo.
I understand it (the situation). - No lo sabía.
I didn’t know it.
⚠️ Don’t confuse this with “lo” as a masculine direct object pronoun (him/it). This rule focuses on the neutral, idea-based use of “lo”.
🧠 Rule 6: Use “Lo” with Superlative and Generalizing Expressions
You can use “lo” to emphasize what’s best, worst, or most important.
📘 Examples:
- Lo mejor de la película fue el final.
The best part of the movie was the ending. - Lo más difícil es empezar.
The most difficult thing is to begin.
🧠 Rule 7: “Lo” in Set Phrases Should Be Memorized
Many common expressions in Spanish include “lo.” These don’t follow strict grammar patterns — they’re idiomatic.
📘 Common Examples:
- A lo mejor = maybe
- Por lo tanto = therefore
- Por lo visto = apparently
⚠️ What NOT to Do:
- Don’t use “lo” with feminine or plural adjectives (e.g., lo bonita, lo buenos ❌)
- Don’t use “lo” to refer to people by gender (use el/la/los/las or proper pronouns)
- Don’t confuse neutral “lo” with masculine object “lo” (used as a direct object pronoun)
🎯 Golden Rule:
If you’re talking about an idea, concept, action, or general characteristic — especially in an abstract, genderless way — use “lo.”
With these grammar rules, you’re well-equipped to use “lo” like a pro!
🧐 Things to Keep in Mind When Using “Lo” in Spanish
Although “lo” may seem simple, it’s one of those small words in Spanish that can get tricky fast if you’re not paying close attention. It behaves differently from other articles, has abstract uses, and can often be confused with pronouns or prepositions.
Let’s break down the most important points, exceptions, and tips to avoid confusion.
⚠️ 1. “Lo” Is Not Masculine – It’s Neutral
This is a common beginner mistake. Unlike el (masculine) or la (feminine), “lo” doesn’t refer to people or objects with gender. Instead, it talks about ideas, actions, or qualities in a neutral way.
Wrong: Lo chico está aquí.
Right: El chico está aquí.
(Use “el” for masculine nouns like “chico.”)Correct usage of “lo”:
- Lo bueno de viajar es conocer culturas nuevas.
(The good thing about traveling is learning about new cultures.)
⚠️ 2. Don’t Use “Lo” Before Feminine or Plural Adjectives
Since “lo” is neutral and singular, it cannot be used with feminine or plural forms.
Incorrect: Lo buenas son las galletas.
Correct: Las galletas son buenas.
Or: Lo bueno de las galletas es su sabor.
(The good thing about cookies is their taste.)
⚠️ 3. Don’t Confuse “Lo” with the Masculine Direct Object Pronoun “Lo”
Spanish uses “lo” in two very different ways:
- As a neutral article (Lo importante es estudiar.)
- As a masculine object pronoun (Lo vi ayer. – I saw him/it yesterday.)
Even though they look the same, their functions are totally different. Focus on what “lo” is replacing or introducing in the sentence to understand its role.
⚠️ 4. “Lo que” Is Different from “Lo cual” and “Lo mismo”
These similar-looking phrases have different meanings and uses:
- Lo que = what / that which
Lo que dijiste fue cierto.
(What you said was true.) - Lo cual = which (used after a whole clause)
Estudió mucho, lo cual fue útil.
(He studied a lot, which was useful.) - Lo mismo = the same thing
Dijo lo mismo otra vez.
(He said the same thing again.)
🧠 Pro Tip: “Lo que” is much more common in daily conversation than “lo cual.”
⚠️ 5. “Lo” Can Show Degree or Quantity — Be Careful With These Structures
When expressing degree or emphasis, “lo” is followed by adjectives or adverbs plus “que.” These expressions sound dramatic or emotional, so use them to add flavor to your Spanish!
Examples:
- No sabes lo cansado que estoy.
(You don’t know how tired I am.) - ¡Lo bien que canta esa niña!
(How well that girl sings!)
These structures are tricky at first, but incredibly useful once you get the hang of them.
⚠️ 6. Set Phrases with “Lo” Can’t Be Translated Word for Word
Some expressions using “lo” don’t translate directly into English. It’s better to memorize them as set phrases.
Common expressions:
- A lo mejor = maybe/perhaps
- Por lo tanto = therefore
- Por lo menos = at least
- Por lo visto = apparently
📝 Learn these as they are — they’re used all the time in spoken and written Spanish!
⚠️ 7. You Can’t Say “Lo es” Alone to Mean “It is”
This is a classic learner error.
Incorrect: Lo es importante.
Correct: Lo importante es…
(The important thing is…)Use “lo” + adjective + “es” to express general ideas or abstract subjects.
✅ Quick Recap of Tricky Points to Watch Out For
- “Lo” is neutral and singular — no gender or plural forms.
- Never use “lo” before feminine or plural adjectives.
- Don’t confuse the neutral article “lo” with the direct object pronoun “lo.”
- “Lo que,” “lo cual,” and “lo mismo” have different meanings — memorize their uses.
- Use “lo que + verb” to refer to abstract actions or ideas.
- Watch out for degree/emphasis structures: lo + adjective/adverb + que.
- Learn common set phrases with “lo” by heart — they’re not literal.
Now that we’ve cleared up all the tricky spots and common errors, let’s put your knowledge to work with 20 powerful example sentences using “lo” naturally and correctly in Spanish.
20 Example Sentences Using “Lo” in Spanish
- Lo bueno de viajar es conocer nuevas culturas. (The good thing about traveling is meeting new cultures.)
- Lo que quiero es descansar. (What I want is to rest.)
- Lo peor de todo es que no lo sabía. (The worst part is that I didn’t know.)
- Lo que más me gusta es leer libros. (What I like most is reading books.)
- Lo fácil que fue el examen me sorprendió. (How easy the exam was surprised me.)
- Lo interesante de la historia es el final. (The interesting part of the story is the ending.)
- Lo importante es estudiar cada día. (The important thing is to study every day.)
- No sabes lo feliz que me haces. (You don’t know how happy you make me.)
- Lo bueno de este lugar es que está cerca de todo. (The good thing about this place is that it’s close to everything.)
- Lo que me preocupa es el futuro. (What worries me is the future.)
- Lo mejor de las vacaciones fue la playa. (The best part of the vacation was the beach.)
- Lo más difícil es empezar. (The most difficult part is starting.)
- Por lo visto, él no va a venir. (Apparently, he is not coming.)
- Lo que dijiste no tiene sentido. (What you said doesn’t make sense.)
- Lo que pasa es que no entiendo. (What’s happening is that I don’t understand.)
- A lo mejor nos vemos mañana. (Maybe we’ll see each other tomorrow.)
- Lo importante es disfrutar el momento. (The important thing is to enjoy the moment.)
- Lo que más me gusta de este libro es el personaje principal. (What I like most about this book is the main character.)
- Lo bueno de estudiar en casa es que no pierdes tiempo en el transporte. (The good thing about studying at home is that you don’t waste time on transport.)
- Lo que me molesta es el ruido. (What bothers me is the noise.)
20 Fill-in-the-Blank Exercises
- ____ bueno de estudiar es que puedes aprender cosas nuevas.
- ____ que más me gusta de este libro es el final.
- ____ fácil que fue el examen me sorprendió.
- ____ importante es mantener una actitud positiva.
- ____ que dije no fue tan claro.
- ____ peor de la situación es que no podemos hacer nada al respecto.
- No sabes ____ feliz que me haces.
- ____ que me molesta es el ruido constante.
- ____ bueno de viajar es que te permite conocer otras culturas.
- ____ más difícil de aprender un idioma es la pronunciación.
- ____ que más me impactó fue la noticia.
- ____ que me gusta hacer en mi tiempo libre es leer.
- ____ mejor de este restaurante es la comida.
- ____ que ocurrió fue inesperado.
- ____ bueno de este día es que no ha llovido.
- ____ interesante de la película es el giro final.
- ____ que quiero hacer es descansar.
- ____ que pasó no lo esperaba.
- ____ malo de esta ciudad es el tráfico.
- ____ bueno de la fiesta fue ver a todos mis amigos.
Answers with the Correct Usage of “Lo”
- Lo bueno de estudiar es que puedes aprender cosas nuevas.
(The good thing about studying is that you can learn new things.) - Lo que más me gusta de este libro es el final.
(What I like most about this book is the ending.) - Lo fácil que fue el examen me sorprendió.
(How easy the exam was surprised me.) - Lo importante es mantener una actitud positiva.
(The important thing is to maintain a positive attitude.) - Lo que dije no fue tan claro.
(What I said wasn’t very clear.) - Lo peor de la situación es que no podemos hacer nada al respecto.
(The worst part of the situation is that we can’t do anything about it.) - No sabes lo feliz que me haces.
(You don’t know how happy you make me.) - Lo que me molesta es el ruido constante.
(What bothers me is the constant noise.) - Lo bueno de viajar es que te permite conocer otras culturas.
(The good thing about traveling is that it allows you to experience other cultures.) - Lo más difícil de aprender un idioma es la pronunciación.
(The most difficult part of learning a language is the pronunciation.) - Lo que más me impactó fue la noticia.
(What impacted me the most was the news.) - Lo que me gusta hacer en mi tiempo libre es leer.
(What I like to do in my free time is read.) - Lo mejor de este restaurante es la comida.
(The best thing about this restaurant is the food.) - Lo que ocurrió fue inesperado.
(What happened was unexpected.) - Lo bueno de este día es que no ha llovido.
(The good thing about today is that it hasn’t rained.) - Lo interesante de la película es el giro final.
(The interesting thing about the movie is the final twist.) - Lo que quiero hacer es descansar.
(What I want to do is rest.) - Lo que pasó no lo esperaba.
(What happened, I didn’t expect it.) - Lo malo de esta ciudad es el tráfico.
(The bad thing about this city is the traffic.) - Lo bueno de la fiesta fue ver a todos mis amigos.
(The best thing about the party was seeing all my friends.)
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About “Lo” in Spanish
1. What does the article “lo” mean in Spanish?
The article “lo” in Spanish is a neutral definite article. It is used to refer to abstract ideas, concepts, or things that do not have a specific gender. It is often translated as “the” in English when referring to things like feelings, situations, or characteristics, but it doesn’t correspond to a specific masculine or feminine noun.
Example:
- Lo importante es estudiar.
(The important thing is to study.)
2. When do I use “lo” in Spanish?
“Lo” is used in the following situations:
- To refer to abstract concepts or ideas (e.g., “lo bueno” = “the good thing”).
- To emphasize an adjective or an adverb (e.g., “lo fácil” = “how easy”).
- In fixed expressions like “a lo mejor” (maybe) or “por lo tanto” (therefore).
3. Can “lo” refer to people or objects?
No, “lo” cannot be used to refer to people or specific objects that have gender. If you’re referring to a person or a specific object, you will use gendered articles like “el” (masculine) or “la” (feminine). “Lo” is only for neutral concepts or situations.
4. What’s the difference between “lo” and “el”?
“Lo” is a neutral article, while “el” is a masculine article. “El” is used with masculine nouns, while “lo” is used with abstract concepts or when you want to emphasize an adjective or adverb.
Example:
- El libro (the book – masculine)
- Lo importante (the important thing – abstract concept)
5. Is there a difference between “lo” and “la”?
Yes, there is. “Lo” is used for neutral and masculine singular abstract nouns or when emphasizing adjectives/adverbs. “La” is the feminine article used with feminine singular nouns.
Example:
- Lo difícil (the difficult thing)
- La difícil situación (the difficult situation)
6. How do you use “lo que” and “lo cual”?
Both “lo que” and “lo cual” can be translated as “what” or “which,” but they are used differently:
- Lo que is used to refer to something undefined or previously mentioned.
- Example: Lo que me gusta es leer. (What I like is reading.)
- Lo cual is used when referring to a previous statement or idea in the sentence.
- Example: No me gustó, lo cual fue una sorpresa. (I didn’t like it, which was a surprise.)
7. Can “lo” be used with verbs?
Yes, “lo” can be used in constructions with verbs to emphasize or specify an action. For example, “lo de” is often used to refer to an event or situation that has been mentioned.
Example:
- Lo de ayer fue increíble. (What happened yesterday was incredible.)
8. Is “lo” used the same way in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, “lo” is used consistently in all Spanish-speaking countries in the same way. However, the specific expressions or contexts where “lo” is used might vary depending on regional idioms or slang.
9. Why do we use “lo” to mean “the thing” or “what”?
In Spanish, the article “lo” is used when referring to a non-specific idea, fact, or concept. It’s an easy way to talk about something that doesn’t have a direct, tangible object but still needs to be discussed.
Example:
- Lo que pasó no lo esperaba. (What happened, I didn’t expect it.)
10. Can “lo” be used in the plural form?
No, “lo” is always singular. If you want to talk about something plural, you would use “los” or “las” depending on the gender of the noun.
Summary of Key Points:
- “Lo” is a neutral definite article used with abstract concepts, ideas, or when emphasizing an adjective or adverb.
- It is not used with feminine nouns or specific masculine/feminine objects.
- Common expressions like “a lo mejor” (maybe), “lo que” (what), and “por lo tanto” (therefore) use “lo.”
- It cannot be used with people or specific objects.
- Use “lo” to refer to an abstract or generalized concept (e.g., lo bueno = the good thing).
Conclusion
The article “lo” is an important and versatile part of the Spanish language. It allows you to express abstract ideas, generalizations, and emphasized qualities in a clear and concise way. By mastering its use, you can speak and write more naturally and effectively in Spanish.
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This wraps up our deep dive into the article “lo” in Spanish!
I hope the explanations and examples were helpful.
Let me know if you have more questions in the comments below!
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Relative Pronouns in Spanish
When learning Spanish, relative pronouns are essential for connecting sentences smoothly and making speech more fluid. These pronouns allow us to refer to people, places, or things without unnecessary repetition. In this blog post, we will explore the different relative pronouns in Spanish, their meanings, and how to use them correctly.
List of Relative Pronouns in Spanish
Relative pronouns in Spanish are used to introduce subordinate clauses and refer to a previously mentioned noun (antecedent). Below is a list of the most common relative pronouns, their meanings, and example sentences:
Relative Pronoun Meaning Example Sentence 1 Example Sentence 2 Que That, which, who La casa que compré es muy grande. La película que vimos fue interesante. Quien / Quienes Who, whom Mi amiga, quien vive en Madrid, me visitó ayer. Los estudiantes, quienes aprobaron, celebraron. Cuyo / Cuya / Cuyos / Cuyas Whose El hombre cuyo coche es rojo está aquí. La chica cuya madre es doctora es mi amiga. Donde Where La ciudad donde nací es hermosa. Este es el restaurante donde cenamos anoche. El que / La que / Los que / Las que The one(s) who/that El libro, el que compraste, es interesante. Las chicas, las que llegaron tarde, son mis amigas. El cual / La cual / Los cuales / Las cuales The one(s) who/that (formal) La casa en la cual crecí está en ruinas. Los estudiantes, los cuales fueron premiados, estaban felices. Lo que What, which No entiendo lo que dijiste. Lo que más me gusta es viajar. Lo cual Which (referring to a whole idea) Perdimos el tren, lo cual fue un problema. Llegó tarde, lo cual nos molestó mucho. Cuanto / Cuanta / Cuantos / Cuantas As much/many as Toma cuanto quieras. Cuantas veces lo intentó, falló. More Example Sentences
- La mujer que trabaja en la tienda es muy amable.
- Mi amigo, quien es muy inteligente, siempre me ayuda.
- El perro cuyo dueño es mi vecino es muy juguetón.
- No entiendo lo que está pasando.
- El país donde nací es hermoso.
- Los estudiantes, los cuales estudian mucho, sacaron buenas notas.
- La casa en la que crecí tiene muchos recuerdos.
- No sé lo que quieres decir.
- Las flores que compraste son muy bonitas.
- La ciudad donde vivo tiene muchas atracciones turísticas.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Agreement in Gender and Number:
- “Cuyo” agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies: El hombre cuyos hijos estudian aquí…
- “El que, la que, los que, las que” also change according to the noun they refer to.
- Use of Articles:
- “El cual, la cual, los cuales, las cuales” often appear with a preposition and are more formal.
- “Lo que” and “lo cual” refer to entire ideas or situations.
- Que vs. Quien:
- “Que” is used for both people and objects.
- “Quien” is used mainly for people and must match singular or plural (quien/quienes).
- Where to Use Relative Pronouns:
- “Donde” is for places.
- “Lo que” and “lo cual” refer to abstract concepts.
- “Cuyo” means “whose” and agrees with the possessed noun.
Fill in the Blanks
- La chica _______ vive al lado es muy simpática.
- El perro _______ dueño es mi vecino ladra mucho.
- No entiendo _______ dices.
- La ciudad _______ naciste es hermosa.
- Mi amigo, _______ es doctor, trabaja en el hospital.
- Las flores, _______ compraste ayer, están muy bonitas.
- Juan, _______ hermano es mi compañero, me ayudó con la tarea.
- La razón por _______ llegamos tarde fue el tráfico.
- No sabía _______ querías decir.
- El edificio _______ ventanas son grandes es nuevo.
Answers
- que
- cuyo
- lo que
- donde
- quien
- las que
- cuyo
- la cual
- lo que
- cuyas
Conclusion
Mastering relative pronouns in Spanish is essential for improving fluency and making speech more natural. Understanding the gender, number agreement, and context in which each pronoun is used will help you construct sentences more accurately. Keep practicing with different sentence structures, and soon, using these pronouns will become second nature.
If you enjoyed this lesson, be sure to check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have.
Happy learning! 😊
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Time Expressions in Spanish: Hace + Time + Que, Desde, Desde Hace, and More
When learning Spanish, mastering time expressions is crucial for effective communication. Expressions like hace + time + que, desde, and desde hace help describe durations, points in time, and ongoing actions. In this blog post, we’ll explore these expressions in detail, provide examples, and offer practice exercises.
Common Spanish Time Expressions
Below is a list of commonly used time expressions in Spanish, their meanings, and example sentences:
Time Expression Meaning Example 1 Example 2 Hace + time + que “It has been (time) since…” Hace dos horas que estudio. (I have been studying for two hours.) Hace un mes que vivo en Madrid. (I have been living in Madrid for a month.) Desde “Since (a point in time)” Vivo en Madrid desde 2020. (I have lived in Madrid since 2020.) No como carne desde enero. (I haven’t eaten meat since January.) Desde hace “For (a duration of time)” Trabajo aquí desde hace cinco años. (I have been working here for five years.) No veo a Juan desde hace meses. (I haven’t seen Juan for months.) Hace + time “(Time) ago” Fui a España hace tres años. (I went to Spain three years ago.) Terminó la tarea hace una hora. (He finished the homework an hour ago.) Llevar + time + gerundio “To have been (doing something) for (time)” Llevo dos años aprendiendo español. (I have been learning Spanish for two years.) Lleva tres horas esperando. (He has been waiting for three hours.) Hace tiempo que “It’s been a long time since…” Hace tiempo que no te veo. (I haven’t seen you in a long time.) Hace tiempo que no viajo. (I haven’t traveled in a long time.) Desde que “Since (something happened)” Desde que me mudé, estoy feliz. (Since I moved, I am happy.) Desde que empezó el curso, estudio más. (Since the course started, I study more.) Al cabo de “After (time period)” Al cabo de dos años, me fui. (After two years, I left.) Al cabo de un mes, nos casamos. (After a month, we got married.) En cuanto “As soon as” En cuanto llegué, comimos. (As soon as I arrived, we ate.) En cuanto lo vi, supe la verdad. (As soon as I saw him, I knew the truth.) More Example Sentences
- Hace cinco minutos que llegué. (I arrived five minutes ago.)
- No veo a mi primo desde hace tres semanas. (I haven’t seen my cousin for three weeks.)
- Estudio español desde el año pasado. (I have been studying Spanish since last year.)
- Desde que cambié de trabajo, soy más feliz. (Since I changed jobs, I am happier.)
- Llevo un mes sin fumar. (I haven’t smoked for a month.)
- Hace dos años que conozco a Marta. (I have known Marta for two years.)
- Al cabo de unos meses, aprendí a nadar. (After a few months, I learned to swim.)
- En cuanto terminó la reunión, salimos. (As soon as the meeting ended, we left.)
- Hace tiempo que no voy al cine. (I haven’t been to the cinema in a long time.)
- Desde que empezó la pandemia, trabajo desde casa. (Since the pandemic started, I have been working from home.)
Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct time expression.
- _______ dos horas que espero tu llamada.
- No veo a mi amigo _______ un año.
- Trabajo en esta empresa _______ hace cinco años.
- _______ empezó el curso, estudio mucho más.
- Mi hermano llegó _______ tres días.
- _______ un mes que no salimos a cenar.
- Llevo dos meses _______ practicar yoga.
- _______ compré este coche, no he tenido problemas mecánicos.
- _______ lo vi, me di cuenta de su felicidad.
- Al cabo _______ un año, decidimos mudarnos.
Answers
- Hace
- Desde hace
- Desde hace
- Desde que
- Hace
- Hace
- Sin
- Desde que
- En cuanto
- de
Things to Keep in Mind
- Gender and Number: Some time expressions require agreement in gender and number. For example, Hace un mes (one month) but Hace dos meses (two months).
- Articles: Desde hace is often followed by a duration (e.g., Desde hace tres años). However, desde alone is used with specific dates or points in time (e.g., Desde 2020).
- Different Uses: Hace + time is used for the past (e.g., Hace un año que fui a España), while Desde hace emphasizes duration.
- Llevar + gerund: This expression is similar to hace + que but emphasizes ongoing action (e.g., Llevo dos años estudiando español).
Conclusion
Time expressions in Spanish are essential for discussing events, durations, and actions. Understanding the differences between hace + time + que, desde, and desde hace will help you communicate fluently. Practice using these expressions in different contexts to improve your Spanish skills!
If you enjoyed this lesson, be sure to check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have.
Happy learning! 😊
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