Imperfect vs. Preterite

'Trataba' is the past descriptive form (imperfect tense) for 'yo' (I), 'él/ella' (he/she), or 'usted' (formal you). It describes actions that were ongoing or happened habitually in the past.

Identifying 'Trataba'

Extremely common. Used to describe how someone behaved toward others in the past, or how something was handled.

Missing 'de'

When 'tratar' means 'to try' or 'to attempt,' it must always be followed immediately by the little word 'de' before the next action verb: 'trataba de hacer' (was trying to do).

The Necessary 'De'

The imperfect tense 'trataba de' is perfect for describing attempts that failed or were interrupted: 'Trataba de dormir, pero el ruido no me dejaba.' (I was trying to sleep, but the noise wouldn't let me.)

Past Frustrated Attempts

Very common when expressing attempts or efforts in the past.

Using 'ser' for topic

When talking about a subject, 'tratar' is usually followed by either 'sobre' (more common) or 'de': 'El libro trataba sobre/de magia' (The book was about magic).

Using 'Sobre' or 'De'

Commonly used to describe the subject matter or central theme of media, conversations, or events.

'Trataba' is the imperfect past form of 'tratar,' meaning 'was treating,' 'used to treat,' or 'was trying to.' Learn its three core meanings, mandatory prepositions, and full conjugation.

trataba

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations