Using 'té' instead of 'mate'

Even though 'yerba' (herb) is feminine, the general term 'mate' (referring to the drink or the cup) is masculine, so we use 'los mates'.

Masculine Plural

Mate is a highly social drink. Saying 'tomar mates' implies a shared, communal experience, often passing the same cup around.

Sharing is Caring

Extremely common in the Southern Cone (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay) but less common elsewhere.

The word 'mates' is used for the 'you' (tú) form in two ways: describing what you currently do ('tú mates' in the present indicative) and for wishes/uncertainty ('que tú mates' in the present subjunctive).

Two 'Tú' Forms

When talking about being killed by an emotion or effort, Spanish often uses 'matar de': 'Me mata de risa' (It kills me with laughter).

Use with 'De'

Common conjugation of the verb 'matar' (to kill/checkmate).

This meaning only works when the context is clearly about chess or visual finishes. Otherwise, people will assume you mean the drink or the verb.

Context is Key

Specialized vocabulary, used mainly in chess or design/art contexts.

Comprehensive guide to the Spanish word 'mates,' covering its primary meaning as the traditional South American herbal drink (yerba mate) and its homonymous use as the 'tú' conjugation of the verb 'matar' (to kill).

Mates Meaning & Usage | Spanish Dictionary Entry | Inklingo

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mates

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

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