deme
DEH-meh
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Deme un vaso de agua, por favor.
A1Give me a glass of water, please.
Si no le gusta, deme el recibo y le devuelvo el dinero.
A2If you don't like it, give me the receipt and I will give you the money back.
Deme su número para llamarle mañana.
A2Give me your number so I can call you tomorrow.
💡 Grammar Points
A Command + A Pronoun
‘Deme’ is actually two words combined: the formal command form of the verb dar (dé) and the pronoun me (me). This structure means 'Give it/something to me.'
The Accent Mark Rule
When you attach pronouns to the end of a command, you often have to add an accent mark (tílde) to the verb to keep the original sound stress in the right place. The stress is on the first syllable: DÉ-me.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Incorrect Pronoun Placement
Mistake: "Me dé un café, por favor."
Correction: Deme un café, por favor. In Spanish affirmative commands, the 'me' must always stick to the end of the verb.
Using the Informal Command
Mistake: "Dame un café, por favor. (When speaking to a stranger/boss)"
Correction: Deme un café, por favor. Use 'deme' when you need to be polite or formal, like talking to a waiter or a professional.
⭐ Usage Tips
Always Add 'Por Favor'
Even though 'deme' is the formal (usted) command, it can still sound a little abrupt. Always soften the request by adding por favor (please).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: deme
Question 1 of 2
Which of these requests is the most polite and formal way to ask a shop clerk for a brochure?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'deme' and 'dame'?
'Deme' is the formal way to say 'give me,' used when addressing someone as *usted* (like a boss, a stranger, or an elder). 'Dame' is the informal way, used with people you address as *tú* (friends, family, children).
Why does 'deme' have an accent mark?
The accent mark is necessary because when you attach pronouns to a one-syllable verb command, the stress needs to be marked to stay on the original syllable. If the accent were missing, the stress would shift to the last syllable (de-MÉ), which is incorrect.