cuide
KWEE-deh
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Espero que yo cuide bien mi jardín este verano.
B1I hope that I take good care of my garden this summer. (Uses 'yo' present subjunctive)
Le pedí a María que cuide a mi gato mientras viajo.
B1I asked Maria to look after my cat while I travel. (Uses 'ella' present subjunctive)
Cuide su dinero, señora, es peligroso aquí.
A2Take care of your money, ma'am, it's dangerous here. (Uses 'Usted' affirmative command)
No cuide solo las apariencias, cuide su interior.
B2Don't just look after appearances, look after your inner self. (Uses 'Usted' negative command)
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Cuide' for Wishes and Doubt
When you want to express a desire, a request, or uncertainty about taking care of something, you must use the special verb form 'cuide'. This is called the 'subjunctive' mood. Example: 'Dudo que él cuide bien el coche.' (I doubt that he takes good care of the car.)
Formal Commands (Usted)
'Cuide' is the standard way to give a polite, formal command (using Usted) to a single person. This is the same form used in the subjunctive. Example: 'Cuide la puerta.' (Guard the door, please.)
❌ Common Pitfalls
Mixing Indicative and Subjunctive
Mistake: "Using the normal present tense form: 'Espero que usted cuida mi perro.'"
Correction: You must use the subjunctive form 'cuide' after verbs of emotion or desire: 'Espero que usted cuide mi perro.' (I hope you take care of my dog.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Easy Subjunctive Rule
If the sentence has two different people connected by 'que' (that), and the first person expresses a wish, the second verb will usually be in the 'cuide' form (subjunctive). Example: 'Quiero que (él) cuide...'
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: cuide
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'cuide' as a formal command (Usted)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cuide' used for present actions or future actions?
'Cuide' (when used in the present subjunctive) usually refers to actions that are happening now or will happen in the future, depending on the context of the main verb (e.g., 'I hope you take care' refers to ongoing or future care).
What is the difference between 'cuide' and 'cuida'?
'Cuida' is the regular present tense form (he/she/it takes care, or the informal command 'tú'). 'Cuide' is the special form (subjunctive) used for wishes, doubts, or the formal command ('Usted'). They are never interchangeable.