duerma
DWER-mah
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Espero que mi hijo duerma bien esta noche.
A2I hope my son sleeps well tonight.
Por favor, duerma un poco más.
A2Please, (formal you) sleep a bit more.
No creo que ella duerma lo suficiente.
B1I don't think she sleeps enough.
💡 Grammar Points
The 'Vowel Swap' Rule
For -IR verbs like 'dormir', when you want to express a wish or a polite command, the 'i' or 'e' ending usually swaps to an 'a'. That is why 'duerme' (he sleeps) becomes 'duerma' (I hope he sleeps).
The Stem Change
Notice that the 'o' in the base word 'dormir' changes to 'ue' in 'duerma'. This is a common pattern in Spanish for many verbs.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the wrong vowel
Mistake: "Espero que él duerme."
Correction: Espero que él duerma.
⭐ Usage Tips
Polite Commands
If you are talking to someone you don't know well (using 'usted'), use 'duerma' to tell them to get some rest. It sounds much more respectful than the casual 'duerme'.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: duerma
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'duerma' correctly to express a wish?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'duerme' and 'duerma'?
'Duerme' is for stating a fact (He sleeps), while 'duerma' is for wishes, doubts, or polite commands (I hope he sleeps/Please sleep).
Who can 'duerma' refer to?
It can refer to 'yo' (I), 'él/ella' (he/she), or 'usted' (the formal 'you').