When is it appropriate to use the imperfect and preterite?

The preterite is generally used for an action that has been completed in the past, which has a definite beginning and end point Example:Anoche fui a la fiesta The imperfect is generally used for an action that does not have a definite end point, including a time in general in the past or an action that isn’t completed yet. It is also used to describe: habitual actions, times and ages, actions that are interrupted by another, characteristics, mental or physical statesExamples: Cuando era pequeña, jugaba al fútbol Ella tenía 25 años cuando se casó con su novioCaminaba por la calle cuando vi a mi amigaMi abuelo era muy alto Hacía mucho calor esa noche I would then help the student to write their own sentences in the past using either the preterite or imperfect, referring back to the list.

ML
Answered by Maisie L. Spanish tutor

1559 Views

See similar Spanish A Level tutors

Related Spanish A Level answers

All answers ▸

Translate from English to Spanish: "Greenhouse gases which are caused by pollution circulate in the atmosphere, so it does not matter which country produces them."


¿Cuáles son los temas principales en el Laberinto del Fauno?


In which case would I use the verb SER and in which case would i use the verb ESTAR when talking about someone's profession?


What is the subjunctive, and how is it used?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning