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abstenerse Present Subjunctive Conjugation

abstenerseto refrain

B1irregular -er★★★
Quick answer:

The subjunctive uses the 'absteng-' stem: me abstenga, te abstengas, se abstenga.

abstenerse Present Subjunctive Forms

yome abstenga
te abstengas
él/ella/ustedse abstenga
nosotrosnos abstengamos
vosotrosos abstengáis
ellos/ellas/ustedesse abstengan

When to Use the Present Subjunctive

Use it after expressions of desire, doubt, or necessity, such as 'Espero que te abstengas' (I hope you refrain).

Notes on abstenerse in the Present Subjunctive

The stem is derived from the 'yo' form of the present indicative (abstengo), keeping the 'g' throughout the conjugation.

Example Sentences

  • Es mejor que te abstengas de opinar.

    It's better that you refrain from giving your opinion.

  • Dudo que se abstengan de venir.

    I doubt they will refrain from coming.

    ellos/ellas/ustedes

  • Busco a alguien que se abstenga de fumar.

    I'm looking for someone who refrains from smoking.

    él/ella/usted

Common Mistakes

  • Mistake: Que yo me abstiene.

    Correct: Que yo me abstenga.

    Why: Subjunctive forms for -er verbs must end in -a, and this verb needs the 'g' stem.

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