inspirar Imperfect Subjunctive Conjugation

When to Use the Imperfect Subjunctive

The imperfect subjunctive is used for hypothetical situations in the past, wishes, doubts, or polite requests that are contrary to fact or unlikely. It often pairs with conditional verbs in the main clause. For example, 'If I had more time, I would be inspired...' uses this tense.

Notes on inspirar in the Imperfect Subjunctive

Inspirar is regular in the imperfect subjunctive. Both the -ra and -se endings are possible, but -ra is generally more common and often preferred. The forms are derived from the third-person plural preterite (inspiraron).

Example Sentences

• Si yo inspirara más confianza, él me habría contratado.

  If I inspired more confidence, he would have hired me.

  yo

• Ojalá él nos inspirara con su ejemplo.

  I wish he would inspire us with his example.

  él/ella/usted

• Quería que el libro me inspirara nuevas ideas.

  I wanted the book to inspire new ideas in me.

  él/ella/usted

• Si ustedes inspiraran pasión por el arte, seríamos mejores artistas.

  If you all inspired a passion for art, we would be better artists.

  ellos/ellas/ustedes

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Using the imperfect indicative ('inspiraba') instead of the imperfect subjunctive ('inspirara').

  Correct: In hypothetical 'if' clauses or after verbs of wishing/doubt referring to the past, the imperfect subjunctive is required.

  Why: The subjunctive mood is used to express non-factual or subjective situations.

• Mistake: Confusing the -ra and -se forms, or using the wrong one.

  Correct: Both forms are correct, but the -ra form (inspirara) is generally more common in spoken Spanish. Ensure you use a consistent set of endings.

  Why: While both are grammatically correct, regional preferences and formality can influence the choice.

Related Tenses