Imperfect vs. Preterite

The form 'decías' is used for actions in the past that were ongoing, repeated habits, or descriptions of how things were. Think of it as 'I was doing' or 'I used to do'.

The Imperfect Tense's Job

This form always pairs with 'tú' (the informal 'you'). If you are speaking formally, you must use 'usted decía'.

Focus on 'Tú'

Use 'decías' when setting the background for a story: 'Era de noche y tú decías que tenías miedo' (It was night and you were saying you were scared).

Setting the Scene

Extremely common. This is the second person singular form of the verb 'decir' (to say/tell) in the Imperfect Tense.

'Decías' is the tú form of the verb 'decir' (to say/tell) in the Imperfect Tense. Learn how to use it to describe past habits ('you used to say') or ongoing actions ('you were saying').

decías

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations