estallar Imperfect Subjunctive Conjugation

When to Use the Imperfect Subjunctive

Use the imperfect subjunctive of estallar to talk about hypothetical situations, wishes, or emotions in the past. For example, 'Si la bomba estallara, todo se destruiría' (If the bomb were to explode, everything would be destroyed) or 'Me alegré de que la tensión no estallara' (I was glad that the tension didn't burst out).

Notes on estallar in the Imperfect Subjunctive

Estallar is regular in the imperfect subjunctive. Both the -ra and -se forms exist, but the -ra form (estallara) is more common in many regions.

Example Sentences

• Si supiera que iba a estallar, no habría venido.

  If I had known it was going to explode, I wouldn't have come.

  yo

• Ojalá el volcán no estallara de nuevo.

  I wish the volcano wouldn't explode again.

  él/ella/usted

• Dudaba que el globo estallara con tanta presión.

  I doubted the balloon would burst with so much pressure.

  él/ella/usted

• Era importante que todos estalláramos de alegría al final.

  It was important that we all burst with joy at the end.

  nosotros

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Using the preterite or imperfect indicative instead of the imperfect subjunctive.

  Correct: Use forms like 'estallara' or 'estallarais' after expressions of doubt, desire, or in 'if' clauses referring to hypothetical past situations.

  Why: The subjunctive mood is required for uncertainty and hypothetical scenarios in the past.

• Mistake: Confusing the -ra and -se forms.

  Correct: While both exist (e.g., estallara and estallase), the -ra form is generally more common and often preferred.

  Why: Regional preferences and formality levels can influence the choice between -ra and -se forms.

Related Tenses