Forgetting the Irregular Past Tense

In the present tense, the 'yo' (I) form is special: 'pongo'. This '-go' ending also appears in other important verbs like 'hago' (I do) and 'salgo' (I leave).

Irregular 'yo' form: 'pongo'

The simple past tense (preterite) changes a lot. The stem becomes 'pus-'. For example: 'Yo puse' (I put), 'Él puso' (He put).

Irregular Past Tense

'Poner' is the general, everyday word for 'to put'. 'Colocar' is a good synonym, but it often implies placing something more carefully or in its proper spot. When in doubt, 'poner' is almost always correct.

'Poner' vs. 'Colocar'

Extremely common. One of the first verbs you'll learn and use daily.

While 'encender' also means 'to turn on', 'poner' is often the more common and casual choice in everyday speech for things like the TV, radio, or air conditioning.

Everyday Usage

Extremely common in everyday conversation for electronics and appliances.

Forgetting the 'se'

Use 'ponerse + adjective' to talk about a sudden or temporary change in someone's mood, health, or physical appearance. Think of it like a state you 'put on' for a while.

Using 'ponerse' for Changes

'Ponerse' is perfect for temporary changes ('se puso pálido' - he turned pale). For more permanent or fundamental changes, Spanish uses other verbs like 'volverse' or 'hacerse'.

Temporary vs. Permanent Change

Essential for expressing changes in mood or appearance.

Common in contexts involving money, effort, or contributions.

Learn the complete meaning and conjugation of the Spanish verb 'poner'. Understand its uses for 'to put', 'to turn on', and how 'ponerse' means 'to become'. Includes examples, quizzes, and usage tips.

poner

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

preterite

imperfect

future

conditional

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

affirmative

negative

Practice Conjugations