Imperfect vs. Preterite

'Creías' describes a state of mind, opinion, or habit that lasted over a period of time in the past. It sets the scene, rather than marking a single, finished event.

The Imperfect Tense Function

The accent on the 'i' (cre**í**as) is necessary to ensure the word has three syllables (cre-í-as) and sounds correct. It prevents the 'e' and 'i' from blending into a quick single sound.

The Crucial Accent

Use 'creías' when correcting someone's past mistake about a fact or situation: 'Creías que el banco estaba abierto, pero no lo estaba.' (You thought the bank was open, but it wasn't.)

Expressing Past Assumptions

Extremely common, used to express past thoughts, beliefs, or assumptions held by 'tú' (you, informal).

'Creías' is the imperfect tense form of 'creer' (to believe), meaning 'you used to believe' or 'you thought.' Learn its specific past usage, pronunciation, and full conjugation.

creías

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations