Using the Wrong 'Had'

This form is essential for creating hypothetical or impossible situations in the present: 'Si tuviese X, haría Y' (If I had X, I would do Y).

The 'If' Structure

In Spanish, the imperfect subjunctive has two equally correct forms: 'tuviese' and 'tuviera'. You can use either one; 'tuviera' is often slightly more common in daily speech.

Two Options for Imperfect Subjunctive

When the first part of a past sentence expresses a wish, doubt, or command (e.g., 'Dudaba que...' or 'Esperaba que...'), the second verb must change to this special form.

When the Main Verb Commands

Always use 'tuviese' (or 'tuviera') after the phrase 'como si' (as if): 'Ella hablaba como si lo tuviese todo' (She spoke as if she had everything).

Use with 'As If'

A common, though advanced, verb form used primarily in hypothetical, conditional, and indirect statements about the past.

Learn the meaning and proper use of the Spanish verb form 'tuviese' (imperfect subjunctive of 'tener'). Includes examples, grammar tips on hypothetical sentences, and full conjugation.

tuviese

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

imperative

affirmative

negative

subjunctive

imperfect

present

indicative

conditional

preterite

imperfect

present

future

Practice Conjugations