Forgetting the 'de'

You use 'trate' (the special Subjunctive form) when the main part of the sentence expresses an emotion, doubt, or necessity about the attempting action, especially after phrases like 'espero que' (I hope that) or 'no creo que' (I don’t believe that).

The Subjunctive Trigger

The formal command for 'you' (Usted) is 'trate.' It’s a very polite way to ask someone to make an effort: 'Trate de no preocuparse' (Try not to worry).

Formal Command

Very common, used whenever expressing wishes, doubts, or requests related to trying or attempting something.

When 'tratar' means 'to treat someone,' you almost always need the little word 'a' before the person who is receiving the treatment: 'Trate bien a su jefe' (Treat your boss well).

Treating People

Remember that the formal command form for 'Usted' (Trate) is identical to the 'yo' and 'él/ella' forms of the Present Subjunctive. This is a common pattern for all regular Spanish verbs.

Formal Commands are Subjunctive

Extremely common, used daily when talking about how people behave towards others.

When 'tratar' means 'to be about,' it is often used impersonally (the subject is 'it' or 'el libro'), and usually requires the preposition 'de' or 'sobre': 'El libro trata de la guerra.'

Impersonal Use

Moderately common, used mainly in academic or literary contexts when discussing themes.

Comprehensive guide to 'trate,' covering its use as the Present Subjunctive form of 'tratar' (to try, to treat, to be about) and its use as a formal command.

trate

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations