My Language Classes

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish

Simple Conditional (Condicional Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Simple Future (Futuro Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Tiempo Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto / Present Perfect Tense in Spanish

The Imperfect Subjunctive Tense in Spanish: Tiempo pretérito imperfecto de subjuntivo

Tiempo Futuro Compuesto / Future Perfect Tense in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the Spanish Simple Conditional Tense: The Ultimate Expert Guide

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

How to Use the Present Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: A Complete B2 Guide on Pretérito Perfecto de Subjuntivo

Past Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: How to Use Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto de Subjuntivo with Examples and Easy Rules

February 24, 2025

Relative Clauses (Oraciones relativas) with Indicative in Spanish

Relative clauses, or oraciones relativos, are an essential part of Spanish grammar. They allow us to provide additional information about a noun without starting a new sentence. When combined with the indicative mood, relative clauses are used to express factual or certain information. Understanding how to use them correctly can significantly improve your fluency and comprehension in Spanish.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about relative clauses with the indicative mood, including common expressions, conjugation rules, and practical examples.

Common Expressions Using Relative Clauses with Indicative

Here’s a list of common expressions that use relative clauses with the indicative mood in everyday Spanish:

El libro que leí – The book that I read.
La persona que me ayudó – The person who helped me.
El lugar donde vivimos – The place where we live.
El momento en que llegó – The moment when he/she arrived.
La razón por la que vine – The reason why I came.
Las cosas que me gustan – The things that I like.
El chico que sabe mucho – The boy who knows a lot.
La casa que compramos – The house that we bought.
El día que nos conocimos – The day we met.
La comida que preparé – The food that I prepared.

These expressions are widely used in daily conversations and are a great starting point for mastering relative clauses with the indicative.

Things to Keep in Mind

When using relative clauses with the indicative mood, keep the following points in mind:

Articles and Agreement: The relative pronoun (que, quien, donde, etc.) must agree in number and gender with the noun it refers to. For example:
- El hombre que habla (The man who speaks).
- Las mujeres que cantan (The women who sing).
Indicative Mood: The indicative is used when the information in the relative clause is factual or certain. For example:
- El niño que estudia mucho (The boy who studies a lot).
Relative Pronouns:
- Que is the most common relative pronoun and can refer to people, things, or ideas.
- Quien/quienes is used for people, especially after prepositions.
- Donde refers to places.
- El cual/la cual/los cuales/las cuales are more formal and used to avoid ambiguity.
Prepositions: When a preposition is needed, it is placed before the relative pronoun. For example:
- La chica con la que hablé (The girl I spoke with).

When to Use Relative Clauses with Indicative

Relative clauses with the indicative mood are used in the following situations:

To Provide Specific Information:
- El coche que compré es rojo (The car I bought is red).
To Describe People or Things:
- La profesora que enseña español es muy amable (The teacher who teaches Spanish is very kind).
To Indicate Time or Place:
- El día que llegaste fue especial (The day you arrived was special).
To Explain Reasons:
- La razón por la que no vine es el tráfico (The reason I didn’t come is the traffic).

Conjugation of Regular Verbs

To form relative clauses with the indicative, conjugate the verb in the indicative mood according to the subject. Here’s how to conjugate regular verbs:

1. -AR Verbs (e.g., hablar – to speak):

Yo hablo
Tú hablas
Él/Ella/Usted habla
Nosotros/Nosotras hablamos
Vosotros/Vosotras habláis
Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes hablan

2. -ER Verbs (e.g., comer – to eat):

Yo como
Tú comes
Él/Ella/Usted come
Nosotros/Nosotras comemos
Vosotros/Vosotras coméis
Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes comen

3. -IR Verbs (e.g., vivir – to live):

Yo vivo
Tú vives
Él/Ella/Usted vive
Nosotros/Nosotras vivimos
Vosotros/Vosotras vivís
Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes viven

Irregular Verbs and Their Conjugation

Here are some common irregular verbs and their conjugation in the indicative mood:

Ser (to be):
- Yo soy
- Tú eres
- Él/Ella/Usted es
- Nosotros/Nosotras somos
- Vosotros/Vosotras sois
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes son
Example: El hombre que es médico (The man who is a doctor).
Ir (to go):
- Yo voy
- Tú vas
- Él/Ella/Usted va
- Nosotros/Nosotras vamos
- Vosotros/Vosotras vais
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes van
Example: El lugar al que vamos (The place we are going to).
Tener (to have):
- Yo tengo
- Tú tienes
- Él/Ella/Usted tiene
- Nosotros/Nosotras tenemos
- Vosotros/Vosotras tenéis
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes tienen
Example: La chica que tiene un perro (The girl who has a dog).

10 Regular Verbs in Relative Clauses with Indicative

Verb	Example Sentence 1	Example Sentence 2
Hablar	El hombre que habla es mi profesor.	La mujer que habla español es mi amiga.
Comer	El niño que come fruta está sano.	La comida que comimos fue deliciosa.
Vivir	La ciudad donde vivo es muy bonita.	Las personas que viven aquí son amables.
Escuchar	La música que escucho es relajante.	El chico que escucha música es mi hermano.
Escribir	El libro que escribió es famoso.	Las cartas que escribimos son importantes.
Leer	El artículo que leí es interesante.	Los libros que leemos son educativos.
Correr	El atleta que corre rápido ganó la carrera.	El perro que corre en el parque es mío.
Bailar	La chica que baila es mi hermana.	La música que bailamos es salsa.
Cantar	El cantante que canta bien es famoso.	Las canciones que cantamos son divertidas.
Trabajar	El hombre que trabaja aquí es ingeniero.	La empresa donde trabajamos es grande.

More Example Sentences

El coche que conduzco es nuevo. (The car I drive is new.)
La casa que construyeron es enorme. (The house they built is huge.)
El libro que leíste es interesante. (The book you read is interesting.)
El lugar donde nos conocimos es especial. (The place where we met is special.)
La persona que me llamó es mi jefe. (The person who called me is my boss.)
El día que llegaste fue inolvidable. (The day you arrived was unforgettable.)
La razón por la que estudias es importante. (The reason why you study is important.)
Las flores que compraste son hermosas. (The flowers you bought are beautiful.)
El niño que juega en el parque es mi hijo. (The boy who plays in the park is my son.)
La comida que preparaste está deliciosa. (The food you prepared is delicious.)

Fill in the Blanks

El libro ___ leí es muy interesante.
La persona ___ me ayudó es mi amiga.
El lugar ___ vivimos es tranquilo.
El día ___ nos conocimos fue especial.
La razón ___ vine es importante.
Las cosas ___ me gustan son simples.
El chico ___ sabe mucho es mi hermano.
La casa ___ compramos es grande.
El momento ___ llegó fue inesperado.
La comida ___ preparé es saludable.

Answers: 1. que, 2. que, 3. donde, 4. que, 5. por la que, 6. que, 7. que, 8. que, 9. en que, 10. que

Conclusion

Mastering relative clauses with the indicative mood in Spanish is a key step toward fluency. By understanding the rules, practicing conjugation, and using common expressions, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and naturally. Keep practicing with the examples and exercises provided, and soon you’ll find yourself using relative clauses with confidence in your conversations.

¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Happy learning! 😊

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish

Simple Conditional (Condicional Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Simple Future (Futuro Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Tiempo Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto / Present Perfect Tense in Spanish

The Imperfect Subjunctive Tense in Spanish: Tiempo pretérito imperfecto de subjuntivo

Tiempo Futuro Compuesto / Future Perfect Tense in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the Spanish Simple Conditional Tense: The Ultimate Expert Guide

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

How to Use the Present Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: A Complete B2 Guide on Pretérito Perfecto de Subjuntivo

Past Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: How to Use Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto de Subjuntivo with Examples and Easy Rules

February 23, 2025

100 Example Sentences of Reported Speech (Estilo Indirecto) in Spanish | My Language Classes

Example Sentences of Reported Speech (Estilo Indirecto) in Spanish

Reported speech, or estilo indirecto, is a key aspect of Spanish grammar that allows us to relay what someone else has said without quoting their exact words. Whether you’re sharing a conversation, recounting a story, or summarizing someone’s thoughts, mastering estilo indirecto is essential for effective communication in Spanish.

In this blog post, we’ve compiled 100 example sentences of reported speech in Spanish. These examples cover a variety of contexts, including statements, questions, commands, and thoughts. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, these sentences will help you understand and practice estilo indirecto in real-life situations.

100 Example Sentences of Reported Speech in Spanish

Here are 100 example sentences of reported speech in Spanish, categorized by type (statements, questions, commands, and thoughts). Each sentence is accompanied by its English translation for clarity.

Statements (Declaraciones)

Dijo que tenía hambre.
- He said he was hungry.
Ella comentó que le gustaba el café.
- She mentioned she liked coffee.
Juan explicó que no podía venir.
- Juan explained he couldn’t come.
Ellos aseguraron que terminarían el proyecto.
- They assured they would finish the project.
Mi mamá dijo que cocinaría la cena.
- My mom said she would cook dinner.
El profesor explicó que el examen era difícil.
- The teacher explained that the exam was difficult.
Dijeron que llovería mañana.
- They said it would rain tomorrow.
Ella afirmó que había estudiado mucho.
- She claimed she had studied a lot.
Carlos dijo que no sabía la respuesta.
- Carlos said he didn’t know the answer.
Nos contaron que habían viajado a España.
- They told us they had traveled to Spain.

Questions (Preguntas)

Me preguntó si quería café.
- He asked me if I wanted coffee.
Ella quería saber si habías terminado la tarea.
- She wanted to know if you had finished the homework.
Preguntó cuándo llegaría el tren.
- He asked when the train would arrive.
Me preguntaron dónde vivía.
- They asked me where I lived.
Quería saber por qué no habías llamado.
- He wanted to know why you hadn’t called.
Preguntó si podía ayudarle.
- He asked if he could help her.
Ella me preguntó si conocía a María.
- She asked me if I knew María.
Querían saber cómo había sido el viaje.
- They wanted to know how the trip had been.
Preguntó qué hora era.
- He asked what time it was.
Me preguntó si había visto la película.
- He asked me if I had seen the movie.

Commands and Requests (Órdenes y Peticiones)

Me pidió que cerrara la puerta.
- He asked me to close the door.
Ella me dijo que no hablara tan alto.
- She told me not to speak so loudly.
El jefe me ordenó que terminara el informe.
- The boss ordered me to finish the report.
Mi mamá me pidió que lavara los platos.
- My mom asked me to wash the dishes.
Me sugirió que descansara un poco.
- He suggested I rest a little.
El profesor nos dijo que estudiáramos más.
- The teacher told us to study more.
Me pidieron que les ayudara.
- They asked me to help them.
Ella me dijo que no me preocupara.
- She told me not to worry.
El médico me recomendó que bebiera más agua.
- The doctor recommended I drink more water.
Me pidió que le llamara más tarde.
- He asked me to call him later.

Thoughts and Feelings (Pensamientos y Sentimientos)

Pensé que no vendrías.
- I thought you wouldn’t come.
Creí que era tarde.
- I thought it was late.
Ella dijo que estaba cansada.
- She said she was tired.
Me dijo que estaba feliz.
- He told me he was happy.
Pensé que no sabías la respuesta.
- I thought you didn’t know the answer.
Creí que habías terminado.
- I thought you had finished.
Ella dijo que tenía miedo.
- She said she was scared.
Me contó que estaba emocionado.
- He told me he was excited.
Pensé que no te gustaba el café.
- I thought you didn’t like coffee.
Creí que no querías venir.
- I thought you didn’t want to come.

Mixed Examples (Ejemplos Variados)

Dijo que no había visto la película.
- He said he hadn’t seen the movie.
Ella me preguntó si había ido al concierto.
- She asked me if I had gone to the concert.
Me pidió que le explicara el problema.
- He asked me to explain the problem to him.
Pensé que no habías recibido el mensaje.
- I thought you hadn’t received the message.
Dijeron que no tenían tiempo.
- They said they didn’t have time.
Me preguntó si podía prestarle dinero.
- He asked me if I could lend him money.
Ella dijo que no quería ir.
- She said she didn’t want to go.
Me pidieron que les contara la historia.
- They asked me to tell them the story.
Pensé que no te gustaba el helado.
- I thought you didn’t like ice cream.
Dijo que no había comido nada.
- He said he hadn’t eaten anything.

More Examples (Más Ejemplos)

Ella me dijo que no sabía nadar.
- She told me she didn’t know how to swim.
Me preguntó si había estado en París.
- He asked me if I had been to Paris.
Dijo que no había terminado el libro.
- He said he hadn’t finished the book.
Ella me pidió que le ayudara con la tarea.
- She asked me to help her with the homework.
Pensé que no habías entendido.
- I thought you hadn’t understood.
Dijeron que no podían venir a la fiesta.
- They said they couldn’t come to the party.
Me preguntó si había visto a Juan.
- He asked me if I had seen Juan.
Ella dijo que no quería hablar del tema.
- She said she didn’t want to talk about the subject.
Me pidieron que les esperara.
- They asked me to wait for them.
Pensé que no te gustaba el fútbol.
- I thought you didn’t like soccer.

Complex Examples (Ejemplos Complejos)

Dijo que no había recibido el correo.
- He said he hadn’t received the email.
Ella me preguntó si había comprado el regalo.
- She asked me if I had bought the gift.
Me pidió que le explicara cómo funcionaba.
- He asked me to explain how it worked.
Pensé que no habías escuchado la noticia.
- I thought you hadn’t heard the news.
Dijeron que no tenían suficiente dinero.
- They said they didn’t have enough money.
Me preguntó si podía acompañarle.
- He asked me if I could accompany him.
Ella dijo que no quería salir.
- She said she didn’t want to go out.
Me pidieron que les contara un chiste.
- They asked me to tell them a joke.
Pensé que no te gustaba el té.
- I thought you didn’t like tea.
Dijo que no había dormido bien.
- He said he hadn’t slept well.

Advanced Examples (Ejemplos Avanzados)

Ella me dijo que no sabía qué hacer.
- She told me she didn’t know what to do.
Me preguntó si había hablado con el jefe.
- He asked me if I had spoken to the boss.
Dijo que no había entendido la explicación.
- He said he hadn’t understood the explanation.
Ella me pidió que le enseñara a cocinar.
- She asked me to teach her how to cook.
Pensé que no habías visto el mensaje.
- I thought you hadn’t seen the message.
Dijeron que no podían ayudarnos.
- They said they couldn’t help us.
Me preguntó si había terminado el informe.
- He asked me if I had finished the report.
Ella dijo que no quería discutir.
- She said she didn’t want to argue.
Me pidieron que les mostrara el camino.
- They asked me to show them the way.
Pensé que no te gustaba el queso.
- I thought you didn’t like cheese.

Final Examples (Ejemplos Finales)

Dijo que no había recibido la invitación.
- He said he hadn’t received the invitation.
Ella me preguntó si había reservado la mesa.
- She asked me if I had reserved the table.
Me pidió que le explicara por qué estaba triste.
- He asked me to explain why I was sad.
Pensé que no habías entendido la pregunta.
- I thought you hadn’t understood the question.
Dijeron que no tenían tiempo para ayudarnos.
- They said they didn’t have time to help us.
Me preguntó si podía prestarle mi coche.
- He asked me if I could lend him my car.
Ella dijo que no quería ir al cine.
- She said she didn’t want to go to the movies.
Me pidieron que les contara mi experiencia.
- They asked me to tell them about my experience.
Pensé que no te gustaba el vino.
- I thought you didn’t like wine.
Dijo que no había comido desde la mañana.
- He said he hadn’t eaten since morning.
Juan dijo que tenía mucha hambre.
- (Juan said that he was very hungry.)
María comentó que había viajado a España el año pasado.
- (María commented that she had traveled to Spain last year.)
Pedro explicó que no podía asistir a la reunión.
- (Pedro explained that he couldn’t attend the meeting.)
Ana me dijo que compraría un coche nuevo el próximo mes.
- (Ana told me that she would buy a new car next month.)
El profesor mencionó que los estudiantes habían hecho un buen trabajo.
- (The teacher mentioned that the students had done a good job.)
Mi madre me recordó que tenía que llevar un abrigo porque hacía frío.
- (My mother reminded me that I had to wear a coat because it was cold.)
Carlos aseguró que habría una fiesta el sábado.
- (Carlos assured that there would be a party on Saturday.)
Sofía contó que había visto una película muy interesante.
- (Sofía said that she had seen a very interesting movie.)
Ellos dijeron que llegarían tarde a la cena.
- (They said that they would arrive late to dinner.)
El jefe anunció que habría cambios en la empresa.
- (The boss announced that there would be changes in the company.)

Conclusion

These 100 example sentences of reported speech in Spanish provide a comprehensive resource for understanding and practicing estilo indirecto. Whether you’re reporting statements, questions, commands, or thoughts, these examples will help you communicate more effectively in Spanish.

Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be using estilo indirecto like a native speaker! ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Imperative Mode in Spanish

Preterite Tense (Pretérito Indefinido) in Spanish

Imperfect Tense (Pretérito Imperfecto) in Spanish

Future Simple Tense in Spanish

Spanish Conditional Tense (Condicional Simple)

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Subjunctive Mood in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish

Simple Conditional (Condicional Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Simple Future (Futuro Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Estar + Gerund (Progressive Actions) in Spanish

Tiempo Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto / Present Perfect Tense in Spanish

The Imperfect Subjunctive Tense in Spanish: Tiempo pretérito imperfecto de subjuntivo

Tiempo Futuro Compuesto / Future Perfect Tense in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the Spanish Simple Conditional Tense: The Ultimate Expert Guide

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

Mastering Present Progressive in Spanish

How to Use the Present Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: A Complete B2 Guide on Pretérito Perfecto de Subjuntivo

Past Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: How to Use Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto de Subjuntivo with Examples and Easy Rules

Preterite Tense (Pretérito Indefinido) in Spanish

100 Example Sentences on Subordinate Clauses in Spanish | My Language Classes

Causal Subordinate Clauses (Expressing Cause/Reason)

No fui a la fiesta porque estaba cansado. (I didn’t go to the party because I was tired.)
Estudio mucho porque quiero sacar buenas notas. (I study a lot because I want to get good grades.)
Como no teníamos dinero, no compramos nada. (Since we didn’t have money, we didn’t buy anything.)
No salí porque llovía mucho. (I didn’t go out because it was raining heavily.)
Ella lloró porque estaba triste. (She cried because she was sad.)
No pude dormir porque hacía mucho ruido. (I couldn’t sleep because it was too noisy.)
Falté a clase porque estaba enfermo. (I missed class because I was sick.)
No comí porque no tenía hambre. (I didn’t eat because I wasn’t hungry.)
Ganó el premio porque trabajó duro. (He won the prize because he worked hard.)
No llegué a tiempo porque había tráfico. (I didn’t arrive on time because there was traffic.)

Conditional Subordinate Clauses (Expressing Conditions)

Si estudias, aprobarás el examen. (If you study, you’ll pass the exam.)
Si tengo tiempo, te ayudaré. (If I have time, I’ll help you.)
No iré a menos que tú vayas. (I won’t go unless you go.)
Aunque haga frío, saldré a correr. (Even if it’s cold, I’ll go running.)
Si hubiera sabido, habría venido antes. (If I had known, I would have come earlier.)
Si llueve, nos quedaremos en casa. (If it rains, we’ll stay home.)
Si no comes, te sentirás débil. (If you don’t eat, you’ll feel weak.)
Si me llamas, iré contigo. (If you call me, I’ll go with you.)
Si no estudias, reprobarás. (If you don’t study, you’ll fail.)
Si no llegas a tiempo, perderás el tren. (If you don’t arrive on time, you’ll miss the train.)

Temporal Subordinate Clauses (Expressing Time)

Cuando llegues, avísame. (When you arrive, let me know.)
Después de que termines, podemos salir. (After you finish, we can go out.)
Antes de que empiece la película, compra palomitas. (Before the movie starts, buy popcorn.)
Mientras cocino, escucho música. (While I cook, I listen to music.)
Tan pronto como llegue, te llamaré. (As soon as I arrive, I’ll call you.)
Cuando termine de llover, saldremos. (When it stops raining, we’ll go out.)
Antes de que oscurezca, regresaremos. (Before it gets dark, we’ll return.)
Mientras estudias, yo prepararé la cena. (While you study, I’ll prepare dinner.)
Cuando tengas tiempo, hablamos. (When you have time, we’ll talk.)
Después de que comas, lavaremos los platos. (After you eat, we’ll wash the dishes.)

Purpose Subordinate Clauses (Expressing Purpose)

Estudio para que pueda aprobar. (I study so that I can pass.)
Trabaja duro para que tu familia esté orgullosa. (Work hard so that your family can be proud.)
Ahorro dinero para que pueda viajar. (I save money so that I can travel.)
Hablo despacio para que me entiendas. (I speak slowly so that you can understand me.)
Escribe claramente para que no haya confusiones. (Write clearly so that there are no misunderstandings.)
Estudia mucho para que consigas un buen trabajo. (Study hard so that you can get a good job.)
Llegamos temprano para que no nos regañen. (We arrived early so that they wouldn’t scold us.)
Compré flores para que ella esté feliz. (I bought flowers so that she would be happy.)
Practico todos los días para que mejore mi español. (I practice every day so that my Spanish improves.)
Hice la tarea para que no me castiguen. (I did the homework so that they wouldn’t punish me.)

Concessive Subordinate Clauses (Expressing Contrast)

Aunque hace frío, voy a salir. (Even though it’s cold, I’m going out.)
A pesar de que llueve, iremos al parque. (Even though it’s raining, we’ll go to the park.)
Aunque no tengo dinero, soy feliz. (Even though I don’t have money, I’m happy.)
Aunque esté cansado, terminaré el trabajo. (Even though I’m tired, I’ll finish the work.)
Aunque no me gusta, lo haré. (Even though I don’t like it, I’ll do it.)
Aunque es difícil, lo intentaré. (Even though it’s difficult, I’ll try.)
Aunque no tengo experiencia, me contrataron. (Even though I don’t have experience, they hired me.)
Aunque no lo entiendas, sigue intentando. (Even though you don’t understand, keep trying.)
Aunque no tengas razón, te escucharé. (Even though you’re not right, I’ll listen to you.)
Aunque no quieras, debes hacerlo. (Even though you don’t want to, you must do it.)

Relative Subordinate Clauses (Adding Information)

El libro que compré es interesante. (The book that I bought is interesting.)
La chica que canta es mi hermana. (The girl who is singing is my sister.)
El lugar donde nos conocimos es especial. (The place where we met is special.)
El hombre que habla es mi profesor. (The man who is speaking is my teacher.)
La casa que vimos es muy cara. (The house that we saw is very expensive.)
El perro que ladra es de mi vecino. (The dog that is barking belongs to my neighbor.)
La película que vimos era aburrida. (The movie that we watched was boring.)
El coche que compré es nuevo. (The car that I bought is new.)
La persona que llamó era mi jefe. (The person who called was my boss.)
El restaurante donde comimos es famoso. (The restaurant where we ate is famous.)

Subordinate Clauses with Regular Verbs

Espero que hables con él. (I hope you talk to him.)
Quiero que comas sano. (I want you to eat healthy.)
Espero que vivas feliz. (I hope you live happily.)
A menos que estudies, no aprobarás. (Unless you study, you won’t pass.)
Cuando trabajes, sé responsable. (When you work, be responsible.)
Espero que escribas una carta. (I hope you write a letter.)
Quiero que leas este libro. (I want you to read this book.)
A menos que corras, no llegarás. (Unless you run, you won’t arrive.)
Espero que bailes conmigo. (I hope you dance with me.)
Quiero que cantes en la fiesta. (I want you to sing at the party.)

Subordinate Clauses with Irregular Verbs

Espero que seas feliz. (I hope you are happy.)
Voy a la tienda antes de que cierre. (I’m going to the store before it closes.)
A menos que tengas dinero, no podemos ir. (Unless you have money, we can’t go.)
Espero que vengas a la reunión. (I hope you come to the meeting.)
Si tienes tiempo, te ayudaré. (If you have time, I’ll help you.)
Espero que puedas venir. (I hope you can come.)
Quiero que sepas la verdad. (I want you to know the truth.)
Aunque esté cansado, terminaré el trabajo. (Even though I’m tired, I’ll finish the work.)
Espero que hagas tu tarea. (I hope you do your homework.)
Si sales, llévate un paraguas. (If you go out, take an umbrella.)

More Example Sentences

Espero que vengas a la fiesta. (I hope you come to the party.)
Si llueve, no iremos al parque. (If it rains, we won’t go to the park.)
Aunque esté cansado, terminaré el trabajo. (Even though I’m tired, I’ll finish the work.)
Cuando llegues, avísame. (When you arrive, let me know.)
Estudio mucho para que pueda aprobar. (I study a lot so that I can pass.)
No iré a menos que tú vayas. (I won’t go unless you go.)
Después de que termines, llámame. (After you finish, call me.)
Llegaré antes de que empiece la película. (I’ll arrive before the movie starts.)
Como no estudiaste, reprobaste. (Since you didn’t study, you failed.)
Mientras cocino, escucho música. (While I cook, I listen to music.)

Additional Sentences for Practice

Espero que vengas a la reunión. (I hope you come to the meeting.)
Si tienes tiempo, te ayudaré. (If you have time, I’ll help you.)
Aunque esté cansado, terminaré el trabajo. (Even though I’m tired, I’ll finish the work.)
Cuando llegues, avísame. (When you arrive, let me know.)
Estudio mucho para que pueda aprobar. (I study a lot so that I can pass.)
No iré a menos que tú vayas. (I won’t go unless you go.)
Después de que termines, llámame. (After you finish, call me.)
Llegaré antes de que empiece la película. (I’ll arrive before the movie starts.)
Como no estudiaste, reprobaste. (Since you didn’t study, you failed.)
Mientras cocino, escucho música. (While I cook, I listen to music.)

Conclusion

Subordinate clauses are a powerful tool for expressing complex ideas in Spanish. By practicing these 100 example sentences, you’ll gain confidence in using oraciones subordinadas in your conversations and writing. Whether you’re talking about causes, conditions, time, or purpose, these examples will help you master this essential aspect of Spanish grammar.

Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be using subordinate clauses like a native speaker! ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Imperative Mode in Spanish

Imperfect Tense (Pretérito Imperfecto) in Spanish

Future Simple Tense in Spanish

Spanish Conditional Tense (Condicional Simple)

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Subjunctive Mood in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish

Simple Conditional (Condicional Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Simple Future (Futuro Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Estar + Gerund (Progressive Actions) in Spanish

Tiempo Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto / Present Perfect Tense in Spanish

The Imperfect Subjunctive Tense in Spanish: Tiempo pretérito imperfecto de subjuntivo

Tiempo Futuro Compuesto / Future Perfect Tense in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the Spanish Simple Conditional Tense: The Ultimate Expert Guide

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

Mastering Present Progressive in Spanish

How to Use the Present Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: A Complete B2 Guide on Pretérito Perfecto de Subjuntivo

Past Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: How to Use Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto de Subjuntivo with Examples and Easy Rules

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Subordinate Clauses (Oraciones Subordinadas) in Spanish

Subordinate clauses, or oraciones subordinadas in Spanish, are an essential part of mastering the language. They allow you to express complex ideas by connecting a main clause with a dependent clause. In simpler terms, a subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it relies on the main clause to give it meaning. Whether you’re describing a condition, providing a reason, or expressing time, subordinate clauses are your go-to tool for adding depth and nuance to your Spanish conversations and writing.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about subordinate clauses in Spanish, including common expressions, conjugation rules, irregular verbs, and practical examples. By the end, you’ll be able to use subordinate clauses confidently in your daily Spanish communication.

Common Expressions Using Subordinate Clauses

Subordinate clauses are often introduced by specific conjunctions or expressions. Here’s a list of common ones used in everyday Spanish:

Porque (because)
- Example: Estudio porque quiero aprender. (I study because I want to learn.)
Aunque (although, even though)
- Example: Voy al parque aunque llueva. (I’m going to the park even if it rains.)
Si (if)
- Example: Si tengo tiempo, te llamaré. (If I have time, I’ll call you.)
Cuando (when)
- Example: Cuando llegues, avísame. (When you arrive, let me know.)
Mientras (while)
- Example: Mientras cocino, escucho música. (While I cook, I listen to music.)
Como (since, as)
- Example: Como no estudiaste, reprobaste. (Since you didn’t study, you failed.)
Para que (so that)
- Example: Estudio mucho para que pueda aprobar. (I study a lot so that I can pass.)
A menos que (unless)
- Example: No iré a menos que tú vayas. (I won’t go unless you go.)
Después de que (after)
- Example: Después de que termines, llámame. (After you finish, call me.)
Antes de que (before)
- Example: Llegaré antes de que empiece la película. (I’ll arrive before the movie starts.)

Things to Keep in Mind

When using subordinate clauses in Spanish, there are a few key points to remember:

Verb Conjugation: The verb in the subordinate clause must agree with the subject and tense of the main clause.
- Example: Si tengo dinero, viajaré. (If I have money, I will travel.)
Subjunctive Mood: Some subordinate clauses require the subjunctive mood, especially when expressing doubt, uncertainty, or hypothetical situations.
- Example: Espero que vengas. (I hope you come.)
Articles and Gender: Ensure that articles and adjectives agree in gender and number with the nouns they modify.
- Example: El libro que compré es interesante. (The book that I bought is interesting.)
Plural Forms: Pay attention to plural forms when using subordinate clauses.
- Example: Los niños que juegan son felices. (The children who play are happy.)
Punctuation: In Spanish, subordinate clauses are often separated by commas when they precede the main clause.
- Example: Cuando llegues, avísame. (When you arrive, let me know.)

When to Use Subordinate Clauses

Subordinate clauses are used in various situations, including:

Expressing Cause or Reason:
- No fui a la fiesta porque estaba cansado. (I didn’t go to the party because I was tired.)
Describing Conditions:
- Si estudias, aprobarás. (If you study, you’ll pass.)
Indicating Time:
- Cuando termine, te llamaré. (When I finish, I’ll call you.)
Expressing Purpose:
- Estudio para que pueda conseguir un buen trabajo. (I study so that I can get a good job.)
Showing Contrast:
- Aunque hace frío, voy a salir. (Even though it’s cold, I’m going out.)

Conjugation

Regular Verbs

Subordinate clauses can be formed with regular verbs in Spanish. Here’s how to conjugate them in the present tense:

-AR Verbs (e.g., hablar)
- Yo hablo
- Tú hablas
- Él/Ella/Usted habla
- Nosotros hablamos
- Vosotros habláis
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes hablan
-ER Verbs (e.g., comer)
- Yo como
- Tú comes
- Él/Ella/Usted come
- Nosotros comemos
- Vosotros coméis
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes comen
-IR Verbs (e.g., vivir)
- Yo vivo
- Tú vives
- Él/Ella/Usted vive
- Nosotros vivimos
- Vosotros vivís
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes viven

Irregular Verbs

Irregular verbs in subordinate clauses follow unique conjugation patterns. Here are some common irregular verbs and their conjugations:

Ser (to be)
- Yo soy
- Tú eres
- Él/Ella/Usted es
- Nosotros somos
- Vosotros sois
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes son
Example: Espero que seas feliz. (I hope you are happy.)
Ir (to go)
- Yo voy
- Tú vas
- Él/Ella/Usted va
- Nosotros vamos
- Vosotros vais
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes van
Example: Voy a la tienda antes de que cierre. (I’m going to the store before it closes.)
Tener (to have)
- Yo tengo
- Tú tienes
- Él/Ella/Usted tiene
- Nosotros tenemos
- Vosotros tenéis
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes tienen
Example: A menos que tengas dinero, no podemos ir. (Unless you have money, we can’t go.)

Regular Verbs in Subordinate Clauses: Examples

Verb	Example Sentence 1	Meaning	Example Sentence 2	Meaning
Hablar	Espero que hables con él.	I hope you talk to him.	Cuando hables, sé claro.	When you speak, be clear.
Comer	Quiero que comas sano.	I want you to eat healthy.	Si comes mucho, te sentirás mal.	If you eat too much, you’ll feel sick.
Vivir	Espero que vivas feliz.	I hope you live happily.	Cuando vivas aquí, lo entenderás.	When you live here, you’ll understand.
Estudiar	A menos que estudies, no aprobarás.	Unless you study, you won’t pass.	Estudio para que pueda aprender.	I study so that I can learn.
Trabajar	Cuando trabajes, sé responsable.	When you work, be responsible.	Trabajo para que mi familia tenga todo.	I work so that my family has everything.
Escribir	Espero que escribas una carta.	I hope you write a letter.	Si escribes bien, te publicarán.	If you write well, they’ll publish you.
Leer	Quiero que leas este libro.	I want you to read this book.	Cuando leas, comprenderás.	When you read, you’ll understand.
Correr	A menos que corras, no llegarás.	Unless you run, you won’t arrive.	Corro para que pueda mantenerme en forma.	I run so that I can stay in shape.
Bailar	Espero que bailes conmigo.	I hope you dance with me.	Si bailas bien, te felicitarán.	If you dance well, they’ll congratulate you.
Cantar	Quiero que cantes en la fiesta.	I want you to sing at the party.	Cuando cantes, todos te escucharán.	When you sing, everyone will listen to you.

More Example Sentences

Espero que vengas a la reunión. (I hope you come to the meeting.)
Si llueve, no iremos al parque. (If it rains, we won’t go to the park.)
Aunque esté cansado, terminaré el trabajo. (Even though I’m tired, I’ll finish the work.)
Cuando llegues, avísame. (When you arrive, let me know.)
Estudio mucho para que pueda aprobar. (I study a lot so that I can pass.)
No iré a menos que tú vayas. (I won’t go unless you go.)
Después de que termines, llámame. (After you finish, call me.)
Llegaré antes de que empiece la película. (I’ll arrive before the movie starts.)
Como no estudiaste, reprobaste. (Since you didn’t study, you failed.)
Mientras cocino, escucho música. (While I cook, I listen to music.)

Fill in the Blanks

Espero que _______ (venir) a la fiesta.
Si _______ (tener) tiempo, te ayudaré.
Aunque _______ (estar) cansado, iré.
Cuando _______ (llegar), avísame.
Estudio para que _______ (poder) aprobar.
No iré a menos que tú _______ (ir).
Después de que _______ (terminar), llámame.
Llegaré antes de que _______ (empezar) la película.
Como no _______ (estudiar), reprobaste.
Mientras _______ (cocinar), escucho música.

Answers:

vengas
tienes
esté
llegues
pueda
vayas
termines
empiece
estudiaste
cocino

Conclusion

Mastering subordinate clauses in Spanish opens up a world of possibilities for expressing complex ideas and emotions. By understanding the rules of conjugation, recognizing common expressions, and practicing regularly, you’ll soon find yourself using oraciones subordinadas with ease. Whether you’re writing, speaking, or simply trying to understand native speakers, this guide will help you navigate the intricacies of Spanish grammar.

¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Happy learning! 😊

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish

Simple Conditional (Condicional Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Simple Future (Futuro Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Tiempo Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto / Present Perfect Tense in Spanish

The Imperfect Subjunctive Tense in Spanish: Tiempo pretérito imperfecto de subjuntivo

Tiempo Futuro Compuesto / Future Perfect Tense in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the Spanish Simple Conditional Tense: The Ultimate Expert Guide

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

How to Use the Present Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: A Complete B2 Guide on Pretérito Perfecto de Subjuntivo

Past Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: How to Use Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto de Subjuntivo with Examples and Easy Rules

Correlative Conjunctions in English

Correlative conjunctions are an essential part of English grammar, used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that have equal importance within a sentence. They always come in pairs, and their proper usage can significantly enhance the clarity and flow of your writing.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the definition, usage, and examples of correlative conjunctions, along with practical tips to master them.

What Are Correlative Conjunctions?

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to join sentence elements of equal grammatical value. They are used to show a relationship between two ideas, emphasize contrasts, or present alternatives. The most common correlative conjunctions include:

Both…and
Either…or
Neither…nor
Not only…but also
Whether…or
As…as
No sooner…than
Rather…than
Such…that
Scarcely…when

These pairs are inseparable and must be used together to maintain grammatical correctness.

When and How to Use Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are used in various situations to connect ideas, emphasize relationships, or present choices. Below is a list of situations where they are commonly used:

To show addition or inclusion:
- Both…and is used to emphasize that two ideas or items are included.
  Example: Both the teacher and the students were excited about the field trip.
To present alternatives:
- Either…or and whether…or are used to present two options or possibilities.
  Example: You can either stay home or come with us.
To express negation or exclusion:
- Neither…nor is used to indicate that neither of the two options is true or applicable.
  Example: Neither the cat nor the dog was in the house.
To emphasize contrast or surprise:
- Not only…but also is used to highlight two ideas, often with an element of surprise.
  Example: She is not only intelligent but also very kind.
To compare similarities:
- As…as is used to show equality in comparison.
  Example: He is as tall as his brother.
To indicate time relationships:
- No sooner…than and scarcely…when are used to show that one action follows another immediately.
  Example: No sooner had she left than it started raining.
To express preference:
- Rather…than is used to show a preference for one option over another.
  Example: I would rather walk than take the bus.
To show cause and effect:
- Such…that is used to emphasize the result of something.
  Example: It was such a beautiful day that we decided to go hiking.

List of Correlative Conjunctions with Examples

Here’s a table of common correlative conjunctions with two example sentences for each:

Correlative Conjunction	Example Sentences
Both…and	Both the movie and the book were fascinating.
	She is both a talented singer and a skilled dancer.
Either…or	You can either have tea or coffee.
	Either John or Sarah will lead the meeting.
Neither…nor	Neither the teacher nor the students knew the answer.
	He neither called nor texted me.
Not only…but also	She is not only a great writer but also an excellent speaker.
	Not only did he finish the project, but he also did it ahead of schedule.
Whether…or	I can’t decide whether to go to the party or stay home.
	Whether it rains or shines, the event will take place.
As…as	She is as talented as her sister.
	This book is as interesting as the one I read last week.
No sooner…than	No sooner had we arrived than the show started.
	No sooner did he finish his meal than he left the table.
Rather…than	I would rather read a book than watch TV.
	He chose to walk rather than drive.
Such…that	It was such a hot day that we decided to go swimming.
	She is such a good cook that everyone loves her food.
Scarcely…when	Scarcely had I entered the room when the phone rang.
	Scarcely had the meeting started when the power went out.

More Example Sentences

Both the cake and the cookies were delicious.
Either you apologize or face the consequences.
Neither the manager nor the employees were satisfied with the decision.
Not only did she complete the assignment, but she also helped her classmates.
Whether you like it or not, we have to finish this project today.
He is as brave as a lion.
No sooner had the train left than we realized we missed it.
I would rather study than go out tonight.
It was such a difficult exam that many students failed.
Scarcely had the movie begun when the fire alarm went off.

Fill in the Blanks

______ the teacher ______ the students were aware of the surprise test.
You can ______ take the bus ______ walk to the station.
______ did she finish her homework ______ she started watching TV.
He is ______ a good athlete ______ a brilliant student.
______ it rains ______ shines, the match will continue.
She is ______ tall ______ her brother.
______ had I reached the office ______ the meeting began.
I would ______ read a book ______ watch a movie.
It was ______ a boring lecture ______ I fell asleep.
______ the cat ______ the dog was responsible for the mess.

Answers:

Both…and
Either…or
No sooner…than
Not only…but also
Whether…or
As…as
Scarcely…when
Rather…than
Such…that
Neither…nor

Things to Keep in Mind

Balance is key: Ensure that the elements connected by correlative conjunctions are parallel in structure.
Example: She not only likes to read but also to write. (Correct)
She not only likes reading but also to write. (Incorrect)
Don’t split the pairs: Correlative conjunctions must always be used together.
Example: Either you come with us, or you stay here. (Correct)
Either you come with us, you stay here. (Incorrect)
Avoid double negatives: When using neither…nor, ensure the sentence doesn’t have another negative word.
Example: He neither eats meat nor drinks alcohol. (Correct)
He doesn’t neither eat meat nor drink alcohol. (Incorrect)
Use appropriate verb agreement: When using either…or or neither…nor, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.
Example: Neither the students nor the teacher was present. (Correct)
Neither the students nor the teacher were present. (Incorrect)

Conclusion

Correlative conjunctions are powerful tools in English grammar that help connect ideas, emphasize relationships, and create balanced sentences. By understanding their usage and practicing with examples, you can enhance your writing and communication skills. Remember to maintain parallelism, avoid splitting the pairs, and use proper verb agreement. With consistent practice, you’ll master the art of using correlative conjunctions effectively.

Happy learning! 😊

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Reported Speech (Estilo Indirecto) in Spanish

Reported speech, or estilo indirecto, is a fundamental aspect of Spanish grammar that allows us to relay what someone else has said without quoting their exact words. It is used in both formal and informal contexts, making it an essential skill for effective communication in Spanish. Whether you’re recounting a conversation, sharing news, or summarizing someone’s thoughts, mastering estilo indirecto will significantly enhance your fluency.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about estilo indirecto, including common expressions, conjugation rules, irregular verbs, and practical examples. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to use reported speech confidently in Spanish.

Common Expressions Using Estilo Indirecto

Here’s a list of common expressions used in daily life with estilo indirecto. These phrases are frequently used to report speech or thoughts:

Dijo que… – He/She said that…
Me preguntó si… – He/She asked me if…
Quería saber si… – He/She wanted to know if…
Explicó que… – He/She explained that…
Comentó que… – He/She commented that…
Aseguró que… – He/She assured that…
Negó que… – He/She denied that…
Prometió que… – He/She promised that…
Sugirió que… – He/She suggested that…
Advirtió que… – He/She warned that…

These expressions are often followed by a verb in the indicative or subjunctive mood, depending on the context.

Things to Keep in Mind

When using estilo indirecto, there are several key points to remember:

Verb Tense Changes: The tense of the verb in the original statement often changes in reported speech. For example, present tense may shift to imperfect, and preterite may shift to pluperfect.
Pronoun Adjustments: Pronouns often change to reflect the new perspective. For example, yo (I) may become él/ella (he/she).
Time and Place References: Words like hoy (today) may change to aquel día (that day) in reported speech.
Use of Que: The word que (that) is frequently used to introduce reported speech.
Subjunctive Mood: If the original statement expresses doubt, uncertainty, or a recommendation, the subjunctive mood is used in estilo indirecto.
Gender and Number Agreement: Ensure that adjectives and articles agree in gender and number with the nouns they modify.

When to Use Estilo Indirecto

Estilo indirecto is used in the following situations:

Reporting Statements: To relay what someone has said.
- Example: Juan dijo que tenía hambre. (Juan said he was hungry.)
Reporting Questions: To report questions asked by someone.
- Example: Me preguntó si quería café. (He asked me if I wanted coffee.)
Reporting Commands or Requests: To relay instructions or requests.
- Example: Ella me pidió que cerrara la puerta. (She asked me to close the door.)
Reporting Thoughts or Feelings: To share someone’s thoughts or emotions.
- Example: Pensé que no vendrías. (I thought you wouldn’t come.)

Conjugation

Regular Verbs

In estilo indirecto, regular verbs follow the same conjugation rules as in direct speech. However, the tense may change depending on the context. Here’s how to conjugate regular verbs in the three main categories:

-AR Verbs (e.g., hablar)
- Present: habla → Imperfect: hablaba
- Preterite: habló → Pluperfect: había hablado
-ER Verbs (e.g., comer)
- Present: come → Imperfect: comía
- Preterite: comió → Pluperfect: había comido
-IR Verbs (e.g., vivir)
- Present: vive → Imperfect: vivía
- Preterite: vivió → Pluperfect: había vivido

Irregular Verbs

Irregular verbs in estilo indirecto follow the same conjugation patterns as in direct speech, but their forms must be memorized. Here are some common irregular verbs and their conjugations:

Ser (to be)
- Present: es → Imperfect: era
- Preterite: fue → Pluperfect: había sido
Ir (to go)
- Present: va → Imperfect: iba
- Preterite: fue → Pluperfect: había ido
Decir (to say)
- Present: dice → Imperfect: decía
- Preterite: dijo → Pluperfect: había dicho
Hacer (to do/make)
- Present: hace → Imperfect: hacía
- Preterite: hizo → Pluperfect: había hecho
Tener (to have)
- Present: tiene → Imperfect: tenía
- Preterite: tuvo → Pluperfect: había tenido

List of common Verbs in Estilo Indirecto

Verb	Estilo Indirecto Form	Example Sentence 1	Example Sentence 2	Meaning
Hablar	hablaba	Dijo que hablaba con su madre.	Ella comentó que hablaba español.	He said he was talking to his mom. / She mentioned she spoke Spanish.
Comer	comía	Me dijo que comía pizza.	Ellos aseguraron que comían saludable.	He told me he was eating pizza. / They assured they ate healthy.
Vivir	vivía	Explicó que vivía en Madrid.	Pensé que vivías cerca.	He explained he lived in Madrid. / I thought you lived nearby.
Ser	era	Dijo que era médico.	Creí que era tarde.	He said he was a doctor. / I thought it was late.
Ir	iba	Me preguntó si iba al cine.	Ella dijo que iba a llamarte.	He asked me if I was going to the cinema. / She said she was going to call you.
Decir	dijo	Juan dijo que no vendría.	Ellos dijeron que tenían prisa.	Juan said he wouldn’t come. / They said they were in a hurry.
Hacer	hizo	Aseguró que hizo la tarea.	Pensé que hacías ejercicio.	He assured he did the homework. / I thought you were exercising.
Tener	tenía	Me dijo que tenía sueño.	Creí que tenías razón.	He told me he was sleepy. / I thought you were right.
Poder	podía	Dijo que podía ayudarme.	Ellos comentaron que podían venir.	He said he could help me. / They mentioned they could come.
Querer	quería	Me preguntó si quería café.	Ella dijo que quería viajar.	He asked me if I wanted coffee. / She said she wanted to travel.

More Example Sentences

Dijo que no podía venir a la fiesta. (He said he couldn’t come to the party.)
Me preguntó si había terminado el proyecto. (He asked me if I had finished the project.)
Ella aseguró que sabía la respuesta. (She assured she knew the answer.)
Explicó que no tenía tiempo. (He explained he didn’t have time.)
Comentó que le gustaba el café. (He mentioned he liked coffee.)
Advirtió que llovería mañana. (He warned it would rain tomorrow.)
Prometió que llamaría más tarde. (He promised he would call later.)
Negó que hubiera robado el dinero. (He denied he had stolen the money.)
Sugirió que fuéramos al parque. (He suggested we go to the park.)
Quería saber si habías visto la película. (He wanted to know if you had seen the movie.)

Fill in the Blanks

Ella _____ que no _____ tiempo. (decir, tener)
Me _____ si _____ al cine. (preguntar, ir)
Dijo que _____ la tarea. (hacer)
Nos _____ que _____ temprano. (pedir, llegar)
Creí que _____ en casa. (estar)
Explicó que no _____ la respuesta. (saber)
Ellos _____ que _____ a la fiesta. (decir, venir)
Pensé que _____ más tarde. (llamar)
Aseguró que _____ el libro. (leer)
Me _____ si _____ ayuda. (preguntar, necesitar)

Answers:

dijo, tenía
preguntó, iba
había hecho
pidió, llegáramos
estabas
sabía
dijeron, vendrían
llamarías
había leído
preguntó, necesitaba

Conclusion

Mastering estilo indirecto is a crucial step toward achieving fluency in Spanish. By understanding the rules of conjugation, recognizing common expressions, and practicing with real-life examples, you’ll be able to report speech accurately and naturally. Remember to pay attention to verb tense changes, pronoun adjustments, and the use of the subjunctive mood when necessary. With consistent practice, you’ll soon find yourself using estilo indirecto with confidence in everyday conversations.

¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Happy learning! 😊

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish

Understanding the Present Subjunctive (Presente de Subjuntivo) in Spanish

Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto (Past Perfect) in Spanish

Pretérito Indefinido vs. Imperfecto – Usage and Contrast Between Two Types of Past Tense in Spanish

Simple Conditional (Condicional Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Simple Future (Futuro Simple) Tense/Mode in Spanish

Tiempo Pretérito Perfecto Compuesto / Present Perfect Tense in Spanish

The Imperfect Subjunctive Tense in Spanish: Tiempo pretérito imperfecto de subjuntivo

Tiempo Futuro Compuesto / Future Perfect Tense in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide

Master the Spanish Simple Conditional Tense: The Ultimate Expert Guide

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

How to Use the Present Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: A Complete B2 Guide on Pretérito Perfecto de Subjuntivo

Past Perfect Subjunctive in Spanish: How to Use Pretérito Pluscuamperfecto de Subjuntivo with Examples and Easy Rules

February 21, 2025

How to Stay Consistent and Avoid Burnout in Language Learning | My Language Classes

How to Stay Consistent in Language Learning

Learning a new language is an exciting journey, but it’s not without its challenges. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, staying consistent and avoiding burnout can feel like an uphill battle. You might start with enthusiasm, only to find yourself losing steam after a few weeks. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

In this blog post, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you stay consistent in your language learning journey while avoiding burnout. From setting realistic goals to incorporating fun into your routine, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Why Consistency Matters in Language Learning

Consistency is the backbone of language learning. Unlike cramming, which might help you pass a test, consistent practice helps you internalize the language, build fluency, and retain what you’ve learned. However, maintaining consistency requires more than just willpower—it requires a well-thought-out plan.

Section 1: Setting Realistic Goals

1.1 Start Small and Build Momentum

One of the biggest mistakes language learners make is setting overly ambitious goals. Instead of aiming to master a language in three months, break your goals into smaller, achievable milestones. For example, focus on learning 10 new words a day or holding a 5-minute conversation by the end of the week.

Pro Tip: Use the SMART goal framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to structure your language learning objectives.

1.2 Track Your Progress

Tracking your progress not only keeps you motivated but also helps you identify areas for improvement. Use a journal, app, or spreadsheet to log your daily or weekly achievements.

Actionable Advice: Celebrate small wins! Finished a chapter in your textbook? Reward yourself with a treat or a break.

Section 2: Creating a Sustainable Routine

2.1 Find Your Optimal Learning Time

Are you a morning person or a night owl? Identify the time of day when you’re most alert and focused, and dedicate that time to language learning.

Expert Insight: Studies show that short, frequent study sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones. Aim for 20-30 minutes daily rather than a 3-hour marathon session once a week.

2.2 Mix Up Your Learning Methods

Repetition is key, but monotony can lead to burnout. Combine different learning methods like reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Use flashcards, language apps, podcasts, and videos to keep things fresh.

Practical Tip: Incorporate language learning into your daily life. Label household items in your target language, or listen to a podcast while commuting.

Section 3: Staying Motivated

3.1 Connect with a Community

Language learning doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Join online forums, language exchange groups, or social media communities to connect with fellow learners.

Call to Action: Follow My Language Classes on Instagram and join our vibrant community of language enthusiasts!

3.2 Find Your “Why”

Remind yourself why you started learning the language in the first place. Is it to travel, connect with family, or advance your career? Keeping your “why” front and center can reignite your motivation during tough times.

Personal Anecdote: When I first started learning Spanish, I hit a plateau and felt like giving up. But remembering my dream of traveling through South America kept me going—and now I’m fluent!

Section 4: Avoiding Burnout

4.1 Listen to Your Body and Mind

Burnout often stems from pushing yourself too hard. If you’re feeling exhausted or frustrated, take a break. It’s okay to step back and recharge.

Expert Advice: Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress and improve focus.

4.2 Make Learning Fun

Turn language learning into a hobby rather than a chore. Watch movies, listen to music, or play games in your target language.

Pro Tip: Check out My Language Classes on YouTube for fun and engaging language learning videos!

Section 5: Overcoming Common Challenges

5.1 Dealing with Plateaus

Plateaus are a natural part of the learning process. When progress feels slow, revisit your goals, try new methods, or seek feedback from a tutor or native speaker.

Actionable Advice: Join My Language Classes on Quora to ask questions and get expert advice from our community.

5.2 Managing Time Effectively

Balancing language learning with other responsibilities can be tough. Use time-blocking techniques to allocate specific slots for learning in your schedule.

Practical Tip: Use apps like Trello or Notion to organize your language learning tasks and stay on track.

Conclusion: Consistency is Key

Staying consistent in language learning is about finding a balance between discipline and enjoyment. By setting realistic goals, creating a sustainable routine, staying motivated, and avoiding burnout, you can make steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

Remember, language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate every step forward, no matter how small.

If you enjoyed this blog, 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 about nouns.

Happy learning! 😊

How I Stopped Struggling and Started Enjoying Learning a New Language

How to Learn a New Language Fast: Proven Tips and Strategies

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How to Stay Consistent in Language Learning and Avoid Burnout

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Why Do People Fail at Learning a New Language? Common Mistakes & Fixes

How to Overcome the Fear of Speaking a New Language

Language Learning Plateaus: Why They Happen & How to Overcome Them

SMART Goals for Language Learning: A Strategic Approach to Success

Master Language Learning with the Pomodoro Technique: Boost Focus, Retention, and Productivity

How to Stay Motivated When Learning a Language Feels Hard: Expert Tips to Keep Going

How to Remember New Words Easily: Hacks for Language Learners

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Do You Need to Live in a Country to Become Fluent in Its Language?

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February 20, 2025

Acabar de + Infinitivo in Spanish

In Spanish, the phrase “Acabar de + infinitivo” is a common and useful construction that allows speakers to express that an action has just been completed. It translates to “to have just done something” in English. This structure is widely used in everyday conversations and is essential for anyone learning Spanish to master. Whether you’re talking about finishing a meal, completing a task, or arriving somewhere, “Acabar de + infinitivo” is a go-to phrase.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this construction, including common expressions, conjugation rules, and practical examples.

Common Expressions Using Acabar de + Infinitivo

Here’s a list of common expressions using “Acabar de + infinitivo” that you’ll hear in daily Spanish conversations:

Acabar de comer – To have just eaten
Acabar de llegar – To have just arrived
Acabar de terminar – To have just finished
Acabar de hablar – To have just spoken
Acabar de salir – To have just left
Acabar de escribir – To have just written
Acabar de limpiar – To have just cleaned
Acabar de estudiar – To have just studied
Acabar de trabajar – To have just worked
Acabar de ducharse – To have just showered

These expressions are used frequently in everyday life, making them essential for conversational Spanish.

Things to Keep in Mind

When using “Acabar de + infinitivo”, there are a few key points to remember:

No Articles Needed: Unlike other constructions, you don’t need to use articles (el, la, los, las) before the infinitive verb.
Example: Acabo de comer (I have just eaten) – Not Acabo de la comer.
Gender and Plurality: The verb “acabar” conjugates according to the subject, but the infinitive verb remains unchanged regardless of gender or number.
Example: Ella acaba de comer (She has just eaten) / Ellos acaban de comer (They have just eaten).
Tense Consistency: “Acabar de + infinitivo” is primarily used in the present tense to describe recent actions. However, it can also be used in the past tense to indicate that something had just happened.
Example: Acababa de salir (I had just left).
Reflexive Verbs: If the infinitive verb is reflexive, the reflexive pronoun must agree with the subject.
Example: Acabo de ducharme (I have just showered).

When to Use Acabar de + Infinitivo

The construction “Acabar de + infinitivo” is used in the following situations:

To Describe Recent Actions: It’s used to talk about something that just happened.
Example: Acabo de ver a María (I have just seen María).
To Emphasize Timing: It highlights that an action was completed very recently.
Example: Acaban de llegar cuando empezó a llover (They had just arrived when it started to rain).
In Narratives: It’s often used in storytelling to indicate the sequence of events.
Example: Acababa de salir de casa cuando sonó el teléfono (I had just left the house when the phone rang).

Conjugation

Regular Verbs

The verb “acabar” is conjugated according to the subject, while the infinitive verb remains in its base form. Here’s how to conjugate “acabar” in the present tense:

Pronoun	Conjugation
Yo	acabo
Tú	acabas
Él/Ella/Usted	acaba
Nosotros/Nosotras	acabamos
Vosotros/Vosotras	acabáis
Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes	acaban

Examples:

Yo acabo de comer (I have just eaten).
Ellos acaban de llegar (They have just arrived).

Irregular Verbs

While “acabar” itself is a regular verb, some infinitive verbs used with it may be irregular. However, since the infinitive form is used, there’s no need to worry about irregular conjugations. The focus remains on conjugating “acabar” correctly.

List of Verbs in Acabar de + Infinitivo

Verb (Infinitive)	Example Sentence 1	Meaning	Example Sentence 2	Meaning
Comer	Acabo de comer.	I have just eaten.	Ellos acaban de comer.	They have just eaten.
Llegar	Acabas de llegar.	You have just arrived.	Ella acaba de llegar.	She has just arrived.
Terminar	Acabamos de terminar.	We have just finished.	Usted acaba de terminar.	You have just finished.
Hablar	Acabo de hablar.	I have just spoken.	Ellos acaban de hablar.	They have just spoken.
Salir	Acabas de salir.	You have just left.	Nosotros acabamos de salir.	We have just left.
Escribir	Acabo de escribir.	I have just written.	Ellas acaban de escribir.	They have just written.
Limpiar	Acabas de limpiar.	You have just cleaned.	Él acaba de limpiar.	He has just cleaned.
Estudiar	Acabo de estudiar.	I have just studied.	Ustedes acaban de estudiar.	You have just studied.
Trabajar	Acabas de trabajar.	You have just worked.	Ellos acaban de trabajar.	They have just worked.
Ducharse	Acabo de ducharme.	I have just showered.	Ella acaba de ducharse.	She has just showered.

More Example Sentences

Acabo de ver una película. (I have just watched a movie.)
Acabas de perder tu oportunidad. (You have just missed your chance.)
Él acaba de comprar un coche nuevo. (He has just bought a new car.)
Nosotros acabamos de limpiar la casa. (We have just cleaned the house.)
Ellos acaban de ganar el partido. (They have just won the game.)
Acabo de recibir una noticia importante. (I have just received important news.)
Ella acaba de terminar su tarea. (She has just finished her homework.)
Usted acaba de llegar a tiempo. (You have just arrived on time.)
Acabamos de conocer a nuestros vecinos. (We have just met our neighbors.)
Ellas acaban de salir de la reunión. (They have just left the meeting.)

Fill in the Blanks

Yo _______ de comer. (acabar)
Tú _______ de llegar. (acabar)
Él _______ de terminar su trabajo. (acabar)
Nosotros _______ de limpiar la casa. (acabar)
Ellos _______ de estudiar para el examen. (acabar)
Ella _______ de ducharse. (acabar)
Usted _______ de hablar con el jefe. (acabar)
Vosotros _______ de salir del cine. (acabar)
Ellas _______ de escribir una carta. (acabar)
Yo _______ de ver una película interesante. (acabar)

Answers:

acabo
acabas
acaba
acabamos
acaban
acaba
acaba
acabáis
acaban
acabo

Conclusion

Mastering “Acabar de + infinitivo” is a game-changer for anyone learning Spanish. It’s a simple yet powerful construction that allows you to express recent actions with ease. By understanding its conjugation, usage, and common expressions, you’ll be able to incorporate it seamlessly into your conversations. Practice with the examples and exercises provided, and soon enough, you’ll be using “Acabar de + infinitivo” like a native speaker! ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

Feel free to share your thoughts or questions in the comments below. If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to share it with others!

Happy learning! 😊

Mastering the Present Indicative Mode in Spanish (Regular verbs)

Present Perfect Tense (Pretérito Perfecto de Indicativo) in Spanish