topar Imperfect Subjunctive Conjugation
topar — to run into
The imperfect subjunctive 'topara' or 'topase' expresses past hypotheticals or wishes.
topar Imperfect Subjunctive Forms
When to Use the Imperfect Subjunctive
Use the imperfect subjunctive for hypothetical situations in the past, wishes, or polite requests that didn't necessarily happen. It often pairs with conditional clauses.
Notes on topar in the Imperfect Subjunctive
Topar is regular in the imperfect subjunctive. You can use either the -ra form (topara) or the -se form (topase), though -ra is more common.
Example Sentences
Si toparas con un obstáculo, avísame.
If you were to run into an obstacle, let me know.
tú
Ojalá no topara con mi ex en la fiesta.
I wish I wouldn't run into my ex at the party.
él/ella/usted
Nos gustaría que no toparais con problemas.
We would like you not to run into problems.
vosotros
Si ellos toparan con el tesoro, serían ricos.
If they were to run into the treasure, they would be rich.
ellos/ellas/ustedes
Common Mistakes
Mistake: Using the preterite instead of imperfect subjunctive.
Correct: Use 'topara' or 'topase' for past hypotheticals.
Why: The preterite describes completed past actions, not past hypotheticals or wishes.
Mistake: Confusing the -ra and -se forms.
Correct: Both 'topara' and 'topase' are correct, but 'topara' is often preferred.
Why: While interchangeable in many contexts, usage can vary regionally.
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Related Tenses
Present
yo: topo
Use the present tense 'topo', 'topas', 'topa' for habitual actions or things happening now with 'topar'.
Preterite
yo: topé
The preterite of 'topar' is regular: 'topé', 'topaste', 'topó', 'topamos', 'topasteis', 'toparon'.
Imperfect
yo: topaba
The imperfect 'topaba' describes ongoing or habitual past encounters with 'topar'.
Future
yo: toparé
The future tense 'toparé' predicts or assumes you will run into something/someone.
Conditional
yo: toparía
The conditional 'toparía' expresses hypothetical encounters or polite suggestions with 'topar'.
Present Subjunctive
yo: tope
Use 'topo' (yo) and 'tope' (él/ella/usted) in the present subjunctive after doubts, wishes, or emotions.
Affirmative Imperative
yo: topa
Use the imperative 'topa' (tú) and 'tope' (usted) for direct commands with 'topar'.
Negative Imperative
yo: no topes
Use 'no topes' (tú) or 'no tope' (usted) for negative commands with 'topar'.