Regular -ir Verbs in Spanish Negative Commands

Negative commands, or prohibitions, in Spanish are your way to tell someone not to do something. For regular -ir verbs, forming these commands is a straightforward process. Let’s explore how it works!

How to Form Negative Commands

Creating a negative command with a regular -ir verb is simple:

  1. Start with “No”: This sets the tone for the prohibition.
  2. Use the Present Subjunctive: Conjugate the verb in the present subjunctive form. For -ir verbs, this involves specific endings (-a, -as, -a, -amos, -an).

Example: Vivir (to live)

Let’s see how this works with the verb “vivir”:

  • No vivas (Don’t live) – informal, singular
  • No viva (Don’t live) – formal, singular
  • No vivamos (Let’s not live)
  • No vivan (Don’t live) – formal, plural or informal, plural (Latin America)

Common -ir Verbs in Action

Here are examples of negative commands with common -ir verbs:

  • Escribir (to write): “No escribas en la pared.” (Don’t write on the wall.)
  • Abrir (to open): “No abras la puerta.” (Don’t open the door.)
  • Subir (to go up, to upload): “No subas las escaleras corriendo.” (Don’t run up the stairs.)

Usage Notes: Important Points to Remember

  • “Let’s Not” Commands: The “nosotros” form expresses “let’s not” and includes the speaker.
  • Regular and Irregular Verbs: Unlike affirmative commands, all negative commands follow the same pattern, making them easier to learn.
  • Pronoun Placement: Pronouns come before the verb in negative commands (e.g., “No lo hagas” – Don’t do it).

Irregular -ir Verbs: A Note of Caution

While this pattern applies to regular -ir verbs, some common -ir verbs are irregular and may not follow it exactly. Be sure to learn these exceptions!

Say “No” with Confidence

Mastering negative commands with regular -ir verbs gives you the power to express prohibitions clearly and effectively. It’s a valuable tool for communicating boundaries, giving instructions, and navigating everyday situations in Spanish.

Synonyms:

  • English: Regular -IR Verbs in Negative Imperative, Prohibitive Commands, Negative Orders, Prohibitions
  • Spanish: Verbos Regulares en -IR en Imperativo Negativo, Mandatos Negativos, Órdenes Negativas, Prohibiciones

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