sumar Imperfect Subjunctive Conjugation

When to Use the Imperfect Subjunctive

You'll use the imperfect subjunctive of sumar in 'if' clauses referring to unlikely or hypothetical situations in the past, or to make polite requests. For instance, 'Si yo sumara los puntos, ganaría' (If I added up the points, I would win) or 'Quisiera que sumaras tu opinión' (I would like you to add your opinion).

Notes on sumar in the Imperfect Subjunctive

Sumar is regular in the imperfect subjunctive. You can use either the -ra or -se ending (e.g., sumara or sumase) interchangeably.

Example Sentences

• Si tuviera más tiempo, sumara todas las opciones.

  If I had more time, I would add up all the options.

  yo

• Me gustaría que sumaras tu experiencia al equipo.

  I would like you to add your experience to the team.

  tú

• Él actuaba como si no sumara los problemas.

  He acted as if he didn't add up the problems.

  él/ella/usted

• Esperábamos que sumaran sus aportes.

  We hoped they would add their contributions.

  ellos/ellas/ustedes

• ¿Qué haríais si sumarais todos los gastos?

  What would you all do if you added up all the expenses?

  vosotros

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Using the imperfect indicative instead of the imperfect subjunctive in hypothetical clauses.

  Correct: Use 'Si yo sumara...' not 'Si yo sumaba...'.

  Why: Hypothetical or contrary-to-fact conditions require the subjunctive mood.

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

  Correct: Both 'sumara' and 'sumase' are correct for 'yo'. Stick to one ending for consistency if you prefer.

  Why: While both endings are grammatically correct, learners sometimes get confused about when to use which, or incorrectly think only one is valid.

Related Tenses