vibrar Imperfect Subjunctive Conjugation

When to Use the Imperfect Subjunctive

The imperfect subjunctive is used for hypothetical situations in the past, often after 'si' (if), or to express wishes, doubts, or emotions about past events. For example, 'Si el teléfono vibrara, sabríamos que nos llaman' (If the phone vibrated, we'd know they're calling).

Notes on vibrar in the Imperfect Subjunctive

Vibrar is regular in the imperfect subjunctive. You can use either the -ra or -se ending (e.g., 'vibrara' or 'vibrase'); both are correct, though -ra is more common in many regions.

Example Sentences

• Si mi móvil vibrara, contestaría.

  If my mobile vibrated, I would answer.

  yo

• Me gustaría que vibraras cuando llega un mensaje.

  I would like you to vibrate when a message arrives.

  tú

• Ojalá el motor vibrara menos.

  I wish the engine vibrated less.

  él/ella/usted

• Era importante que vibráramos todos juntos.

  It was important that we all vibrated together.

  nosotros

• Quería que ellos vibraran con la música.

  I wanted them to vibrate with the music.

  ellos/ellas/ustedes

Common Mistakes

• Mistake: Using the imperfect indicative ('vibraba') instead of the imperfect subjunctive.

  Correct: In hypothetical or wish contexts, use 'vibrara' or 'vibrase'.

  Why: The subjunctive mood is required for uncertainty, hypotheticals, and desires.

• Mistake: Confusing the -ra and -se forms.

  Correct: Both 'vibrara' and 'vibrase' are correct imperfect subjunctive forms.

  Why: Learners might only know one set of endings and avoid the other.

Related Tenses