While most Spanish verbs follow predictable patterns for affirmative commands (imperatives), irregular verbs are the rule-breakers you need to learn. This guide breaks down these common exceptions, focusing on the tricky ‘tú’ form.
Common Irregular Affirmative Commands: Your Cheat Sheet
| Verb (Infinitive) | Tú Form | Usted Form | Ustedes Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| ir (to go) | ve | vaya | vayan |
| ser (to be) | sé | sea | sean |
| estar (to be) | está | esté | estén |
| tener (to have) | ten | tenga | tengan |
| hacer (to do/make) | haz | haga | hagan |
| decir (to say/tell) | di | diga | digan |
| salir (to leave/go out) | sal | salga | salgan |
| poner (to put) | pon | ponga | pongan |
Real-Life Examples
- “¡Ve a la tienda!” (Go to the store!)
- “Sé paciente, por favor.” (Be patient, please.)
- “Ten cuidado con el perro.” (Be careful with the dog.)
- “Haz la tarea ahora.” (Do the homework now.)
- “Di la verdad.” (Tell the truth.)
Tips for Tackling Irregular Commands
- Drop the ‘r’: Many irregular ‘tú’ commands are formed by simply removing the final ‘r’ from the infinitive.
- Present Subjunctive: The ‘usted’ and ‘ustedes’ forms often mirror the present subjunctive.
- Regular ‘Usted’ Forms: Some irregular ‘tú’ verbs have regular conjugations for ‘usted’ and ‘ustedes.’
- Reflexive Pronouns: Remember to keep those reflexive pronouns attached at the end of the verb.
- Stress Marks: Add stress marks to maintain correct pronunciation when attaching pronouns to irregular commands.
Key Takeaways
- Irregular affirmative commands are essential for everyday Spanish.
- Memorizing the common irregular ‘tú’ forms is crucial.
- Understanding the connection to the present subjunctive helps with ‘usted’ and ‘ustedes’ forms.
Synonyms:
- English: Irregular Imperative Mood (Affirmative), Affirmative Imperative Verbs
- Spanish: Verbos Irregulares en Imperativo Afirmativo, Mandatos Afirmativos, Modo Imperativo Afirmativo, Órdenes Afirmativas