empieces
“empieces” means “you start” in Spanish (when expressing a wish, command, or doubt (present subjunctive)).
you start, you beginAlso: that you start
📝 In Action
Espero que empieces a estudiar pronto.
A2I hope that you start studying soon.
No creo que empieces la dieta mañana.
B1I don't believe you will start the diet tomorrow.
Te pido que empieces el proyecto con cuidado.
B1I ask that you begin the project carefully.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: empieces
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses the 'tú' form of the verb 'empezar' in the present subjunctive?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
The verb 'empezar' comes from the older Spanish word 'pezar' (meaning 'to start') combined with the prefix 'en-' (in, on). It has roots in Vulgar Latin and is related to concepts of hitting a target or marking a starting point.
First recorded: Around the 13th century in its current form.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'empezar' change its 'z' to a 'c' in 'empieces'?
This is a mandatory Spanish spelling rule! In Spanish, the letter 'z' can never be followed by the letter 'e' or 'i'. Since the present subjunctive ending for 'tú' starts with 'e' ('-es'), the 'z' must change to 'c' to keep the correct 's' sound.
What is the difference between 'empieces' and 'empiezas'?
'Empiezas' is the standard 'you start' (present indicative), used for facts ('You start work at 9'). 'Empieces' is the special form (present subjunctive), used for wishes, doubts, or emotions ('I wish you start work now').