Using 'ser' instead of 'tardar'

When you say what action is taking time, you almost always use the little word 'en' followed by the base form of the second verb: 'Tarda en comer' (He takes time to eat).

Using 'tardar' with 'en'

When asking about time duration for things like travel, the subject is often implied ('it'), so you use 'tarda': '¿Cuánto tarda?' (How long does it take?)

Impersonal Time

The form 'tarda' is also the friendly command form (tú) for telling someone to take their time: '¡Tarda, no te preocupes!' (Take your time, don't worry!)

Affirmative Command

Very common, used daily to discuss time duration or delays.

'Tarda' is the third-person singular conjugation of the regular verb 'tardar,' meaning 'to take time' or 'to delay.' Learn its full conjugation, common phrases, and usage tips for A1 learners.

tarda

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

preterite

future

present

conditional

imperfect

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

negative

affirmative

Practice Conjugations