Understanding formal commands in Spanish is essential for effective communication in formal settings. This guide explains the rules for forming and using formal commands in Spanish, including common verbs and expressions.
Unlike informal commands, which are used in casual settings, formal commands are used in situations where respect and formality are required. In this guide, we’ll explain the rules for forming and using formal commands in Spanish, including common verbs and expressions.
Forming Formal Commands in Spanish:
To form formal commands in Spanish, we use the imperative mood (Modo Imperativo), we use it to give orders, strong advice or warnings.
You can read more about the imperative forms here!
- For regular “-ar” verbs, add “-e” for singular commands and “-en” for plural commands.
For example, “hablar” (to speak) becomes “hable” for singular commands and “hablen” for plural commands.
- For regular “-er” and “-ir” verbs, add “-a” for singular commands and “-an” for plural commands.
For example, “ser” (to be) becomes “sea” for singular commands and “sean” for plural commands. It is important to memorize the irregular forms for common verbs.
There are several irregular verbs that do not follow the regular present tense pattern. For example, “ir” (to go) becomes “vaya” for singular commands and “vayan” for plural commands.
| Regular Verbs | tú (informal) | usted (formal) |
| beber | bebe | beba |
| esperar | espera | espere |
| hablar | habla | hable |
| vivir | vive | viva |
| Irregular Verbs | tú (informal) | usted (formal) |
| hacer | haz | haga |
| ir | ve | vaya |
| poner | pon | ponga |
| salir | sal | salga |
| tener | ten | tenga |
Using Formal Commands in Spanish
Formal commands are often used to give advice or orders in formal settings. For example, “Por favor, hable más despacio” (Please speak more slowly) or “No hable durante la reunión” (Do not speak during the meeting).
They can also be used to make polite requests or suggestions. For example, “Venga con nosotros, por favor” (Come with us, please) or “Lea este informe antes de la reunión” (Read this report before the meeting).
Formal commands are especially important when addressing superiors or strangers, as they show respect and formality. Using informal commands in these situations can be considered rude or disrespectful.
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