Confusing Imperfect and Preterite

This form ('debían') describes actions that were repeated or continuous in the past, setting the scene for a story. It’s like saying 'they used to' or 'they were habitually obligated to'.

The Imperfect Tense

When 'debían' is used alone, it states a strong past obligation. If you want to give gentler advice about the past, use the conditional form ('deberían') instead.

Obligation vs. Advice

'Debían' is perfect for starting stories about routines or expectations in the past, like 'Every morning, the students were supposed to clean the board...'

Narrative Tool

Extremely common. Used constantly to express past obligations, duties, or expectations.

When 'deber' is followed by a noun (like 'dinero' or 'un favor'), it means 'to owe' that thing. 'Debían' describes this state of owing in the past.

Owed Money

Common when discussing financial matters or favors owed in the past.

To express a guess or strong probability about a past situation, use 'debían de' + the main verb (usually in the infinitive). This is different from the obligation meaning!

Guessing in the Past

While 'deber' alone can sometimes mean probability, adding the small word 'de' (debían de) makes the meaning of assumption much clearer and more common.

Use of 'de'

If you see 'debían' followed by an infinitive (like 'trabajar'), listen to the tone. If it sounds like a guess, translate it as 'must have/probably'; if it sounds like a rule, translate it as 'had to'.

Context is Key

Very common when speculating about a past event or situation.

'Debían' is the imperfect tense form of 'deber' (they/you all). It is primarily used to express past obligations ('they had to'), past assumptions ('they must have been'), or financial debt ('they owed').

Debían Meaning, Conjugation, and Usage | Inklingo

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debían

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

imperative

affirmative

negative

subjunctive

imperfect

present

indicative

conditional

preterite

imperfect

present

future

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