Words to Describe Actions (Verbs)

Classification of Verbs

Verbs in Spanish can be classified into three main groups: -ar, -er, -ir verbs. Each follows a particular conjugation pattern.

Tenses

Present Tense: For regular -ar verbs, the endings are: -o, -as, -a, -amos, -áis, -an. For example, “hablar” becomes “yo hablo” (I speak).
Past Tense: There are two past tenses, preterite and imperfect. For regular -ar verbs, preterite endings are -é, -aste, -ó, -amos, -asteis, -aron. Imperfect endings are -aba, -abas, -aba, -ábamos, -abais, -aban.
Future Tense: The same endings (-é, -ás, -á, -emos, -éis, -án) are used for all verbs. Attach these endings to the infinitive form of the verb. For example, “hablar” becomes “hablaré” (I will speak).

Type of Verbs

Reflexive Verbs: These verbs indicate that the action is being performed on the subject itself. The reflexive pronouns used are “me, te, se, nos, os, se”.
Verbs like Gustar: These verbs use an indirect object pronoun (me, te, le, nos, os, les) instead of a subject. For example, “Me gusta el libro” (I like the book).
Irregular Verbs: There are several Spanish verbs that do not follow the regular conjugation patterns. Some common ones include “ser” (to be), “ir” (to go), “tener” (to have) and “hacer” (to do/make).
Modal Verbs: These are auxiliary verbs used to express ability, necessity, obligation, or permission. Some examples are “poder” (can/to be able to), “deber” (must, to owe), “querer” (to want)
Stem-changing verbs: Some verbs change their stem in the present tense, depending on the subject. The most common changes are e:i, e:ie, and o:ue. The verb “poder” (can/to be able to) is a common example of an o-ue stem-changing verb.

Commands

Commands: To make a command in Spanish, you use the present tense form of the verb, but omit the subject pronoun. The ending for a negative command is different from positive commands.

Practice

Remember, consistent practise is the best way to learn and remember verb conjugations. Practice regular and irregular verbs daily to reinforce this foundation of Spanish grammar.