reflexionar Imperfect Subjunctive Conjugation

When to Use the Imperfect Subjunctive

You'll use the imperfect subjunctive of 'reflexionar' for hypothetical situations in the past, polite requests, or expressing wishes related to past events. For example, 'If I had reflected more...' or 'I wish you would reflect on this'.

Notes on reflexionar in the Imperfect Subjunctive

Reflexionar is regular in the imperfect subjunctive. Both the -ra and -se endings are common, though -ra is often preferred.

Example Sentences

• Si yo hubiera reflexionado más, no habría cometido ese error.

  If I had reflected more, I wouldn't have made that mistake.

  yo

• Me gustaría que tú reflexionaras sobre tus prioridades.

  I would like you to reflect on your priorities.

  tú

• Ojalá él reflexionara un poco antes de hablar.

  Hopefully, he would reflect a little before speaking.

  él/ella/usted

• Ellos pidieron que nosotros reflexionáramos sobre el proyecto.

  They asked that we reflect on the project.

  nosotros

• Sería bueno que ustedes reflexionasen sobre el impacto.

  It would be good if you all reflected on the impact.

  ellos/ellas/ustedes

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Using the preterite instead of the imperfect subjunctive in hypothetical 'if' clauses.

  Correct: For past hypotheticals, use 'Si hubiera reflexionado...' not 'Si reflexioné...'.

  Why: The imperfect subjunctive is required for unreal or hypothetical past conditions.

• Mistake: Confusing the -ra and -se forms.

  Correct: Both 'reflexionara' and 'reflexionase' are correct, but be consistent.

  Why: While interchangeable, learners sometimes get confused about which ending to use or if they are different.

Related Tenses