empiecen
“empiecen” means “(that) they start” in Spanish (Used in the present subjunctive mood).
(that) they start, (that) you all start (formal)
Also: Start!
📝 In Action
Espero que los estudiantes empiecen a estudiar pronto.
A2I hope that the students start studying soon.
¡Empiecen el examen ahora mismo!
A1Start the exam right now!
Les pido que no empiecen sin mí.
B1I ask that you all don't start without me.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Imperfect
Present
Preterite
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: empiecen
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'empiecen' as a formal command?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Old Spanish verb 'empezar', which itself evolved from the Latin phrase 'in-pedicare', meaning 'to step into' or 'to start the action'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'empiecen' used instead of 'empiezan'?
'Empiecen' is used when we are talking about a wish, doubt, necessity, or command (the subjunctive mood). 'Empiezan' is used to state a fact in the present (the indicative mood). For example: 'They start now' (Ellos empiezan ahora) vs. 'I want them to start now' (Quiero que ellos empiecen ahora).
Is 'empiecen' formal or informal?
When used as a command, 'empiecen' is the formal way to address a group of people (ustedes). It is the standard form used in most Latin American countries and for formal speech in Spain.