Are you ready to unlock the mystery of Spanish -GAR verbs and their behavior in negative commands? Get ready to learn a simple spelling change that will elevate your Spanish speaking and writing skills!
The Rule for -GAR Verbs in Negative Commands
Here’s the trick: when using -GAR verbs in negative commands, you need to change the “g” to a “gu” before an “e”.
- Pagar (to pay): No pagues (Don’t pay)
- Llegar (to arrive): No llegues tarde (Don’t arrive late)
Why the Change?
Spanish pronunciation can be tricky, and this change is all about keeping things sounding right. The “ge” combination usually makes a soft ‘h’ sound (think “hedge”), but we want to keep the hard ‘g’ sound (think “go”). Adding the “u” keeps the ‘g’ sounding strong.
Other -GAR Verbs You’ll Encounter
- Apagar (to turn off): No apagues la luz (Don’t turn off the light)
- Jugar (to play): No juegues con fuego (Don’t play with fire)
This Isn’t Just for Negative Commands!
This special rule applies anytime a -GAR verb meets an “e.” You’ll also find it in the present subjunctive mood (used for expressing doubt, wishes, etc.).
Practice Makes Perfect!
The more you practice using -GAR verbs in negative commands, the easier it will become to remember this change.
Synonyms:
- English: -GAR Spelling-Change Verbs in Negative Imperative, Prohibitive Commands, Negative Orders, Prohibitions
- Spanish: Verbos en -GAR con Cambios Ortográficos en Imperativo Negativo, Mandatos Negativos, Órdenes Negativas, Prohibiciones