The Spanish Present Subjunctive can be tricky, but understanding how -CAR verbs change is key to clear communication. This guide breaks down the simple rule for conjugating these verbs in the subjunctive, so you can express yourself with confidence.
The Golden Rule of -CAR Verbs
In the Present Subjunctive, all -CAR verbs change:
- ‘c’ → ‘qu’ before ‘e’
This change applies to every person in the conjugation, ensuring consistent pronunciation throughout.
Conjugation Pattern with ‘tocar’ (to touch)
| Subject | Present Subjunctive Form |
|---|---|
| yo | toque |
| tú | toques |
| él/ella/usted | toque |
| nosotros | toquemos |
| ellos/ellas/ustedes | toquen |
More Examples to Solidify Your Understanding
- buscar (to look for): “Espero que busques la solución.” (I hope you look for the solution.)
- explicar (to explain): “Es importante que expliquemos el proceso.” (It’s important that we explain the process.)
- practicar (to practice): “Quiero que practiquen el vocabulario.” (I want you all to practice the vocabulary.)
Common -CAR Verbs You’ll Encounter
- aplicar (to apply)
- criticar (to criticize)
- dedicar (to dedicate)
- identificar (to identify)
- indicar (to indicate)
- modificar (to modify)
- sacar (to take out)
- verificar (to verify)
When to Use the Present Subjunctive with -CAR Verbs
- After expressions of desire, emotion, doubt, or necessity (e.g., “Deseo que…”, “Espero que…”, “Dudo que…”, “Es necesario que…”)
- In impersonal expressions (e.g., “Es importante que…”)
- In subordinate clauses introduced by ‘que’ (e.g., “Sugiero que…”)
Key Takeaway
Remember, while this spelling change applies to all -CAR verbs in the present subjunctive, it doesn’t occur in other tenses or moods where the ‘c’ is not followed by ‘e’.
Synonyms:
- English: -CAR Spelling-Change Subjunctive Present Verbs
- Spanish: Verbos en -CAR con Cambios Ortográficos en Presente de Subjuntivo, Presente del Subjuntivo, Subjuntivo Presente, Modo Subjuntivo Presente, Presente Subjuntivo, Conjunctive Mood, Conjunctive Present