Using 'estaba' instead of 'estuviera'

Mixing up 'estuviera' and 'fuera'

'Estuviera' is a special form of the verb 'estar' (to be). It's used to talk about things that are hypothetical, unreal, or wished for, especially in the past. It often translates as 'I were,' 'he/she were,' or 'it were.'

What is 'estuviera'?

You'll very often see 'estuviera' right after 'si' (if) to set up an imaginary situation. For example, 'Si yo estuviera rico...' (If I were rich...). The second part of the sentence then usually uses a 'would' verb, like 'compraría' (I would buy).

The 'If' Clause Superpower

You might also see or hear 'estuviese'. Don't worry! 'Estuviera' and 'estuviese' mean the exact same thing and are used in the same ways. 'Estuviera' is just a bit more common in everyday speech.

Its Twin: 'estuviese'

Use 'estuviera' after 'Ojalá' to make a strong wish about a current situation. 'Ojalá estuviera más soleado hoy' means 'I wish it were sunnier today.' It's a powerful way to express what you want reality to be.

Expressing Wishes

Essential for expressing hypotheticals, wishes, and conditions in the past. Very common in 'if' clauses.

Learn how to use 'estuviera' in Spanish. Understand its meaning ('if I were'), see full conjugations for 'estar', and master its use in hypothetical 'if' clauses and wishes with clear examples.

estuviera

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations