How and when do I use the imperfect subjunctive?

The imperfect subjunctive is formed by taking the root of the first person preterite (e.g. the verb 'comer' - 'to eat' - becomes 'comi') and adding the following endings:
-iera (e.g. comiera)-ieras -iera-iéramos-iéris-iéran
We use this form when talking about something that might possibly have happened in in the past, or may still happen - so it is generally preceded by the preposition 'si' ('if') and followed by a main verb in the simple conditional form. For example:
'Si fuera presidente, me dedicaría a formar una sociedad más igual' - 'If I was president, I would focus on creating a more equal society'

Answered by Spanish tutor

2203 Views

See similar Spanish A Level tutors

Related Spanish A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do you use the subjunctive after 'quiero que'?


When do I need to put an accent (pronunciation rules)?


When should you use 'por' and 'para'?


What is the difference between porqué, porque, por qué and por que?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning