Present tense in Spanish (el presente)
Sign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsSign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsWe offer both private lessons and organized group courses
Sign up for free to get all available courses or contact one of our teachers yourself!
Our offer
The Spanish present tense is used to talk about what is true at the moment, what happens regularly and what is happening now. Like the English one!
In Spanish, we use the present tense (Spanish: el presente) to talk about:
Take online language lessons with a professional teacher
In Spanish there are regular and irregular present tense forms.
The present tense in Spanish is formed with the following endings:
Pronouns | -ar verbs conjugated | -er verbs conjugated | -ir verbs conjugated |
---|---|---|---|
hablar (to speak) | comer (to eat) | vivir (to live) | |
Yo | hablo | como | vivo |
Tú | hablas | comes | vives |
Él / Ella | habla | come | vive |
Nosotros | hablamos | comemos | vivimos |
Vosotros | habláis | coméis | vivís |
Ellos / ellas | hablan | comen | viven |
Examples:
These verbs do not follow the pattern of the regular verbs. We have different types of irregular verbs:
In many verbs, the vowel in the stem of the verb changes to a diphthong. Unfortunately, there is no exact rule that makes clear whether a verb has a diphthong or not. Diphthongization changes -e- to -ie-, and -o- to -ue-. You will find a diphthong at all three-person singular and at the third-person plural.
querer | |
---|---|
yo | quiero |
tú | quieres |
él / ella | quiere |
nosotros | queremos |
vosotros | queréis |
ellos/ ellas | quieren |
Examples:
Other verbs that follow the same diphtong change:
poder | |
---|---|
yo | puedo |
tú | puedes |
él / ella | puede |
nosotros | podemos |
vosotros | podéis |
ellos/ ellas | pueden |
Examples:
Other important verbs with diphthong:
Attention: as a diphthong cannot be at the beginning due to pronunciation rules, oler becomes huelo, hueles ...
Here is jugar (play) the only example. But since it is a commonly used verb, you should also memorize this irregularity.
jugar | |
---|---|
yo | juego |
tú | juegas |
él / ella | juega |
nosotros | jugamos |
vosotros | jugáis |
ellos/ ellas | juegan |
Examples:
For some verbs ending in -ir, the stem vowel (vowel in the stem of the verb) changes during conjugation. This vowel change applies only to the three first persons in the singular and the third person plural.
pedir | |
---|---|
yo | pido |
tú | pides |
él / ella | pide |
nosotros | pedimos |
vosotros | pedís |
ellos/ ellas | piden |
Examples:
The first person singular is completely irregular. All other persons follow the same patterns explained above.
Infinitive | First person singular (yo) |
---|---|
hacer (to do) | hago (haces, hace…) |
poner (to put) | pongo (pones, pone…) |
saber (to know) | sé (sabes, sabe…) |
salir (to leave) | salgo (sales, sale…) |
traer (to bring) | traigo (traes, trae…) |
caer (to fall) | caigo (caes,cae…) |
dar (to give) | doy (das, da…) |
valer (to be worth) | valgo (vales, vale…) |
ver (to see) | veo (ves, ve…) |
Ending | Infinitive | Conjugation |
---|---|---|
-ecer | ofrecer (to offer) agradecer (to thank) | ofrezco (ofreces, ofrece…) agradezco (agradeces, agradece…) |
-ocer | conocer (to know) reconocer (to recognize) | conozco (conoces, conoce…) reconozco (reconoces, reconoce…) |
-ucir | traducir (to translate) conducir (to drive) producir (to product) | traduzco (traduces, traduce…) conduzco (conduces, conduce…) produzco (produces, produce…) |
-ger | coger (to take) proteger (to protect) | cojo (coges,coge…) protejo (protejes, proteje…) |
-gir | restringir (to restrain) dirigir (to direct) | restrinjo (restrinjes, restrinje…) dirijo(direijes, dirije…) |
-cer | convencer (to convince) vencer (to beat) | convenzo (convences, convence…) venzo (vences, vence…) |
Unfortunately, in Spanish there are some verbs with multiple irregularities or verbs that are completely irregular. These include some of the most important Spanish verbs such as ser (to be). Memorizing and practicing them is the only thing to do!
tener (to have) | venir (to come) | decir (to say) |
---|---|---|
tengo | vengo | digo |
tienes | vienes | dices |
tiene | viene | dice |
tenemos | venimos | decimos |
tenéis | venís | decís |
tienen | vienen | dicen |
oir (to hear) | seguir (to follow) | ver (to see) |
oigo | sigo | veo |
oyes | sigues | ves |
oye | sigue | ven |
oimos | seguimos | vemos |
oís | seguís | veis |
oyen | siguen | ven |
ser (to be) | estar (to be) | ir (to go) |
soy | estoy | voy |
eres | estás | vas |
es | está | va |
somos | estamos | vamos |
sois | estáis | vais |
son | están | van |
There are situations when you always have to use the present tense:
Situation | Examples | Translation |
---|---|---|
Actions happening now | Amparo dibuja en su cuaderno. | Amparo draws in her notebook |
Habits | Jorge sube por las escaleras. | Jorge always walks up the stairs |
Orders | Coge una hoja y dibuja una casa. | Take a paper and draw a house |
Reported speech | Ayer por la mañana me preguntó: “¿Qué escribes en el cuaderno?" | Yesterday morning he asked: What do you write in your notebook? |
Marker word | Translation | Example |
---|---|---|
hoy | today | Hoy voy al cine. Today I go to the cinema. |
generalmente normalmente | usually | Generalmente voy al cine los lunes. I usually go to the cinema on Monday. |
a veces | sometimes | A veces como garbanzos. Sometimes I eat chickpeas. |
muchas veces | many times | Muchas veces siento que no lo entiendo. Many times, I feel I don’t understand. |
siempre | always | Siempre bebo agua por la mañana. I always drink water in the morning. |
nunca | never | Nunca digas nunca. Never say never. |
varias veces | several times | Voy a nadar varias veces a la semana. I go swimming several times a week. |
a menudo | often | Voy a menudo al mercado. I often go to the market. |
todos los días | every day | Hago yoga todos los días. I do yoga every day. |
de vez en cuando | from time to time | De vez en cuando bebo cerveza. I drink beer from time to time. |
casi nunca | almost never | Casi nunca como pescado. I almost never eat fish. |
Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Adriana is a wonderful teacher. She prepares the lessons individually for me. The lessons are very varied and include components such as grammar, pronunciation, exercises, etc. She has a lot of patience. Adriana speaks very clearly, so that you can understand her very well even if you have a less pronounced knowledge of Spanish. Adriana is a very friendly and motivating teacher. I can highly recommend her, classes with Adriana are always fun and it doesn't feel like studying but you learn a lot :-)
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am a native English language teacher from Ireland. I have the highly acclaimed accreditation of CELTA. I have been living and teaching in Spain for the past 2 years. I specialise in medical English and in exam preparation. I have trained others to become teachers through the TEFL scheme. My students have been very successful in their exams and I have a brilliant track record. I teach all levels and employ different methods, depending on my student's level of comprehension and their objectives. So for example, if I had a juvenile A1 student, I would play games, use flash cards, keep the class dynamic and I would change activity regularly. This helps to hold their attention and keeps them engaged. Their following lesson then touches on revision and progression. If I had a C1 student, I would help them to work on their exam preparation skills and especially their grammar and speaking skills, I would also teach them specific terminology for their area of study/career.
I adore teaching, I am an excellent teacher and I can definitely help to make English easy for you. I am friendly, engaging and I can mimic different accents! :) I can teach British or American English.
I hope to welcome you to my class soon.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Fiona is a new and qualified teacher. I really enjoyed speaking to her, she is very friendly and humorous. She has a a lot of teaching material, even for children and I can highly recommend booking a lesson with her.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Patrick is a nice person and is passioned by English language. He uses different materials made by himself. Foreign students will be able to be confident with him as he adapts learning materials with your native tongue for a better understanding. Moreover Patrick's courses are a mix of grammar and discussion based on your demands and level.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am a CELTA certified Teacher of English and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. I have a vast experience teaching General English, preparation for Cambridge exams-, pronunciation, speaking and developing writing skills. I have been teaching for over 18 years to students of different age ranges (young learners and adults at universities, middle and high school and academies.
What I love most about teaching is that I get to help students and make them see how beautiful this language is and how they can make it useful for their academic and professional lives. Another good point is that we can learn from each other and the opportunity to plan every class in a different way.
I think I can tailor your lessons according to your needs so, do not hesitate and contact me.
See you soon,
Armando
Asimismo, poseo Diploma de la Universidad Central de Venezuela en Enseñanza del Español como Lengua Extranjera y experiencia en el área docente. Soy un empedernido estudioso de la lengua española y de sus pecularidades.
Disfruto el escribir crónicas en este idioma y tengo a disposición recursos para ayudarte a desarrollar destrezas en la lengua de Cervantes.
Espero podamos trabajar juntos,
Armando
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Armando is a very friendly and competent teacher. I had a great time talking to him and can surely recommend him as a teacher.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi! My name is Andrea and I am Italian. During the last years I have been living in Spain too, which is for me my second homecountry.
I have been studying languages at university and since I love teaching the languages I speak, I offer you a great language course of Spanish or Italian.
I can assure you great results since I use methods that work with everyone and make you realize how quick can you be when you want to learn a new language, at any level!
Also, since I have been studying many languages, it helps me to understand how to teach correctly a language to a person who doesn't have it as native language.
For me, languages are much more than just a way to communicate with someone else. Also, I think that my passion in this field helps me to transmit to the students the desire to keep studying and learning amazing languages like these.
Contact me and let's have a trial lesson! It's free! :)
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Andrea is a fun and enthusiastic teacher! Initially when I entered our first session I was nervous, but I became relaxed very quickly because of his bubbly personality and his patient, calm manner. I look forward to having more classes with him in the future.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi!
My name is Natalia and I am a teacher of Spanish as a foreign language. I was born in Uruguay and I’m currently living in Spain.
I have a degree in International Relations and I have been developing my career as a teacher.
My classes are designed following a natural and communicative, action-oriented approach. In each class you will be able to participate, think, give your opinion and thus you will develop step by step all the necessary skills to learn and master the language.
One-on-one Spanish lessons with me include:
- Authentic materials adapted to your needs and interests.
- Exercises and activities that will keep you motivated.
- Feedback and tips to progress.
If you…
- would love to travel through Latin America or Spain
- need to improve your pronunciation in Spanish, your fluency, your comprehension
- would like to invest in your professional career and you know that speaking Spanish is essential
- need Spanish to do business.
- or just want to learn this language because you like it
Book a free trial lesson with me and start learning this beautiful language!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I need to practice the conjugation of the verbs because the past tense is very difficult and I confuse the end of the verbs -ir and -ar.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I have been an English teacher for over 5 years. I have had the opportunity to teach English in different countries as well as to different age groups ranging from 2 years to 18 years old and adults.
I have a CELTA and CAM certificate for teaching general English to adults and I also have a TYLEC certificate from the University of Trinity College for teaching young learners.
I like to design classes that are interactive and fun for students and I also like to work with small projects. I find it is important to create a dynamic and friendly atmosphere with the students.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Patricia is a very friendly teacher, I really enjoyed talking to her. She is great at tailoring teaching material for your individual needs and I can surely recommend her as a teacher.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Laura is kind and a native ! She will learn you Mexican culture and expressions from Mexico ! Her learning materials are based on your demands and on discussions.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Learn Arabic with a native speaker! Arabic is a beautiful, poetic language and I'm happy to spread my love for this language to others. I will use everyday materials; texts, images, videos and audio files to help you learn, speak and use the language in everyday contexts. Weather you are a beginner or have a basic knwoledge of Arabic, I will customize your learning experience to teach you grammar and vocabulary you will actually use in life or at work. Moreover, I can teach you the Jordanian/Palestinian dialect and help you understand the rest of the Levant and the egyptian dialects.
Tell me why you're interested in learning Arabic, register for a free first lesson!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Maysa is a new teacher and ready to teach beginners in Arabic. I had a great time speaking to her and can definitely recommend her as a teacher.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Maysa O.Thank you Henrik, I had a great time speaking to you as well!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
ENGLISH LANGUAGE.
I got certified with the University of Cambridge TKT test, developed empathy to students, polished my method, and the last 5 years I have been teaching english in an online environment.
After years teaching online, I can say that the computer screen is not a limitation. I love to see my students thrive in a new language, I develop my own exercises too, My classes are fun, dynamic and interesting to say the least, I believe I have the patience to create exercises and drills for my students and approach learning from a different perspective and overcome boredom, tiredness and lack of discipline.
I work with realia mostly, and I can tell you that nothing is more powerful than things and situations that are personal to a person.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Manuel is the teacher I was willing to meet. He was able on our very first class to understand my needs and expectations. He's very professional and his knowledge and teaching methods make me feel very confident about my ability to improve my skills in Spanish language.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Ana is a really nice teacher who has experience teaching Spanish and English to different kind of students - both kids and adults - and in different professional environment. She tries to make her classes complete and also dynamic. The quality of her learning material is good.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi!
Mi nombre es Pablo (38) de Vigo en Galicia. Estoy titulado a nivel de máster con la prestigiosa universidad de Salamanca.
Ofrezco clases online a un precio reducido, facilitando el aprendizaje desde la comodidad de tu casa. Utilizo una plataforma online con excelentes recursos y materiales, además de un enfoque socio cultural en torno a la cultura inglesa, los medios de comunicación y las artes.
He vivido durante doce ańos en Bristol, Reino Unido, con una amplia cantidad de lecciones hasta la fecha. Preparación de exámenes, escribiendo ensayos y disertaciones. Mi estilo y enfoque de enseñanza es muy dinámico, lo que significa que haremos que su proceso de aprendizaje sea entretenido y actual.
Actualmente trabajo en el sector de la educación y con empresas de lenguas extranjeras, Chris Polatch Language Courses, Language Services UK, Tutor Hunt, puedo proporcionar referencias de ellos y de estudiantes anteriores.
Ofrezco a mis alumnos
* Una reunión inicial gratuita para discutir sus objetivos en el aprendizaje del español. Por ejemplo, conversación, negocios, etc. * Una evaluación para determinar sus necesidades. * Clases de español personalizadas. * Materiales de aprendizaje para usar durante las clases y en casa. * Seguimiento y asesoramiento en línea fuera del aula.
Descuentos al reservar 4 clases por adelantado y si estás contento con mis clases y decides reservar 8 lecciones por adelantado, una será gratis.
Once in a lifetime!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Pablo is a nice teacher who has more than 10 years of experience in the field. He's been teaching different kind of students, his class are structured and the quality of the learning materials he provides is good.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am young female staying in Johannesburg, South Africa. I have obtained my qualification in Agricultural management. I am well mannered and very inquisitive. I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family because it is always an opportunity to learn more about myself and explore different characteristics that I have. I strongly believe in sharing and helping others. In life, we all have moments where one needs help but it is never easy to ask for help, hence why I always put myself forward by offering help. The world can be a much better place if more people had the spirit to help.
Teaching is a special role for one to play because it requires patience. I was able to learn more about my teaching ability through helping my brother and his friends with their homework and school assignments. I am quite charismatic and able to think on my feet to bring solutions when there is a problem. I enjoy teaching because it allows me to share what I have been taught and my knowledge with the next person.
I strongly believe in using color as part of my teaching methods because things are easier to remember when there is color attached. I will be using mostly paper to emphasize on things being taught so that they can be studied and re-learned at a larger stage. I will be using charts and graphs so the students are able to see and not just picture what is being taught. I will also share documents and articles relating to what is being taught just for interest and so that the students are able to learn more outside the class sessions.
My teaching material:
PDF file
Text Documents
Presentation slides
Audio files
Image files
Video files
Flashcards
Articles and news
Quizzes
Test templates and examples
Graphs and charts
Homework Assignments
Approved
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Mantsha is a very kind and friendly teacher. She has 2 years of online teaching experience and is prepared to teach all ages students. She is ready to improve your English with all learning materials and learning techniques!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials