Confusing Indicative and Subjunctive

The form 'matan' describes actions happening now, routine actions, or facts. It is used when the subjects are 'ellos' (they, masculine/mixed), 'ellas' (they, feminine), or 'ustedes' (you all/y'all, formal).

The 'Present' Tense

When 'matan' acts upon a person or pet, you must use the preposition 'a' before the victim: 'Matan a los prisioneros.' (They kill the prisoners).

Personal 'a'

Since 'matan' is a plural form, remember your subject must also be plural (e.g., 'Los mosquitos,' 'Las noticias,' 'Ustedes').

Focus on the Subject

Very common. Used in its literal sense and in the common idiom 'matar el tiempo' (to kill time).

This figurative use often involves using a pronoun to show who is affected: 'Me matan' (They are killing/exhausting me). The thing doing the 'killing' (the subject, e.g., 'el trabajo') is always plural when using 'matan'.

Feeling the Action

Use this meaning when you want to express that something is extremely tiresome, painful, or overwhelming, far beyond simple annoyance.

Use for Intensity

Commonly used in figurative speech to mean intense discomfort or exhaustion.

Learn the meaning of the Spanish verb form 'matan' (they kill, you all kill), covering its literal and figurative uses (to exhaust, to bore), full conjugation, and usage tips.

matan

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations