Ready to give instructions or make requests in Spanish? Explore the world of affirmative commands with regular -er verbs, the second most common verb group in the language. With consistent patterns and easy-to-follow rules, you’ll be confidently giving orders in no time!
Command Forms: A Quick Guide
Spanish offers four distinct command forms for different levels of formality and number:
- Tú (informal singular): Simply use the third-person singular form of the present indicative.
- Example: “comer” (to eat) → “¡Come!” (Eat!)
- Usted (formal singular): Employ the present subjunctive form.
- Example: “comer” → “¡Coma!” (Eat!)
- Ustedes (formal plural): Also utilize the present subjunctive form.
- Example: “comer” → “¡Coman!” (Eat!)
- Vosotros (informal plural, used in Spain): Remove the “-r” from the infinitive and add “-d.”
- Example: “comer” → “¡Comed!” (Eat!)
Crafting Affirmative Commands: A Simple Recipe
Transforming regular -er verbs into affirmative commands is a breeze. Follow this simple recipe:
- Identify the Verb: Start with the infinitive form of the -er verb (e.g., beber, aprender).
- Choose the Command Form: Determine the appropriate level of formality and number (tú, usted, ustedes, or vosotros).
- Apply the Conjugation Rule: Follow the specific rule for the chosen command form.
Examples in Action
Let’s see these command forms in action:
- Beber (to drink):
- Tú: “¡Bebe agua!” (Drink water!)
- Usted: “¡Beba agua!” (Drink water!)
- Ustedes: “¡Beban agua!” (Drink water!)
- Vosotros: “¡Bebed agua!” (Drink water!)
- Aprender (to learn):
- Tú: “¡Aprende español!” (Learn Spanish!)
- Usted: “¡Aprenda español!” (Learn Spanish!)
- Ustedes: “¡Aprendan español!” (Learn Spanish!)
- Vosotros: “¡Aprended español!” (Learn Spanish!)
Important Notes
- Regularity: These rules apply specifically to regular -er verbs. Irregular verbs may have unique command forms.
- Vosotros Usage: “Vosotros” is primarily used in Spain. In many Latin American countries, “ustedes” is used for both formal and informal plural situations.
By mastering affirmative commands with regular -er verbs, you’ll gain the ability to express your wishes and give instructions clearly and confidently. Practice these forms in various contexts, and soon you’ll be commanding the Spanish language with ease.
Synonyms:
- English: Regular -ER Verbs in Imperative Mood, Positive Commands, Direct Commands, Affirmative Imperatives
- Spanish: Verbos Regulares en -ER en Imperativo Afirmativo, Modo Imperativo Afirmativo, Mandatos Afirmativos, Órdenes Afirmativas