Confusing Subjunctive and Indicative

This form is used when you are giving a negative command ('No trates...') or when you are talking about wishes, doubts, emotions, or necessity directed at the person you call 'tú' ('Espero que trates...').

When to use 'trates'

For 'tú' commands, the negative ('Don't...') always uses the same form as the present subjunctive. So, 'No trates' is the only way to say 'Don't treat/handle'.

The Negative Command Pattern

Extremely common. Used frequently in requests, commands, and expressing necessary actions directed at 'tú'.

Forgetting 'de'

When 'trates' means 'you try,' it must be followed by the word 'de' before the next action: 'trates de salir' (you try to leave). If you forget 'de', it means 'you treat/deal with'.

The Necessary 'de'

If 'trates' is followed by 'de' and a verb, it almost always means 'try.' If it's followed by a person or an object, it usually means 'treat' or 'deal with.'

Context Clues

Very common, especially in phrases requiring effort or attempts, usually followed by 'de'.

'Trates' is the 'tú' form of the present subjunctive and negative imperative of 'tratar.' Learn its two main meanings: 'you treat/deal with' and 'you try/attempt,' including full conjugation and grammar tips.

Trates Meaning, Conjugation & Usage | Inklingo Spanish Dictionary

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trates

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

preterite

future

present

conditional

imperfect

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

negative

affirmative

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