forma
/for-mah/
shape
The basic outline or physical boundary of objects, like these fundamental shapes.
forma(Noun)
📝 In Action
La mesa tiene forma redonda.
A1The table has a round shape.
Me gusta la forma de esa botella.
A2I like the shape of that bottle.
El escultor dio forma a la arcilla.
B1The sculptor gave form to the clay.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Noun
Even though it doesn't end in '-a' in English, 'forma' is a feminine word in Spanish. Always use 'la forma' or 'una forma'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Describing Objects
This is your go-to word for talking about the basic shape of anything you see, from a square box ('forma cuadrada') to a star ('forma de estrella').
Showing multiple methods or manners ('formas') to achieve an outcome.
📝 In Action
Hay muchas formas de aprender español.
A2There are many ways to learn Spanish.
No me gusta la forma en que me habló.
B1I don't like the way he spoke to me.
De esta forma, terminaremos más rápido.
B1In this way, we will finish faster.
❌ Common Pitfalls
'Forma' vs. 'Camino'
Mistake: "Quiero encontrar una forma a la ciudad."
Correction: Quiero encontrar un camino a la ciudad. Use 'forma' for a method or manner, but use 'camino' for a physical path or road.
⭐ Usage Tips
'Forma', 'Manera', and 'Modo'
These three words are often interchangeable for 'way' or 'manner'. 'Forma' and 'manera' are the most common and safest to use in almost any situation.
This visual represents the document ('forma') that requires information to be entered.
📝 In Action
Por favor, rellene esta forma con sus datos personales.
B1Please, fill out this form with your personal data.
Necesito una forma de solicitud de empleo.
B1I need a job application form.
Being 'en forma' means being in good physical condition or fitness.
📝 In Action
Voy al gimnasio para estar en forma.
B1I go to the gym to be in shape.
Después de las vacaciones, estoy fuera de forma.
B1After the holidays, I'm out of shape.
El atleta está en plena forma para la competición.
B2The athlete is in top form for the competition.
⭐ Usage Tips
Always with 'en'
This meaning almost always appears in the phrase 'estar en forma' (to be in shape). You can't just say 'Tengo forma' to mean 'I'm fit'.
Visualizing the action of assembling or creating order, such as 'Forma una fila' (Form a line).
forma(Verb)
📝 In Action
El agua forma charcos en la calle cuando llueve.
A2The water forms puddles in the street when it rains.
Usted forma parte de un equipo excelente.
B1You are part of an excellent team.
¡Forma una fila, por favor!
A2Form a line, please!
💡 Grammar Points
Two Meanings in One
'Forma' can be a statement ('él forma' - he forms) or a command for 'tú' ('¡forma!' - you, form!). The context and punctuation will tell you which one it is.
⭐ Usage Tips
Creating or Constituting
The verb 'formar' is used for creating something (like a team) or for being a part of something ('formar parte de').
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
preterite
imperfect
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: forma
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence uses 'forma' to mean 'way' or 'manner'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'forma', 'manera', and 'modo'?
They are very similar and often interchangeable when you mean 'way' or 'manner'. 'Forma' and 'manera' are the most common. 'Modo' can sometimes feel a bit more technical or specific, like 'modo de empleo' (instructions for use). For everyday conversation, you can use 'forma' or 'manera' without any problem.
How do I know if 'forma' is the noun or the verb?
Look at the other words in the sentence. If you see 'la forma' or 'una forma', it's the noun. If it comes right after a person or thing that is doing an action (like 'él forma', 'el equipo forma'), it's the verb. If it's used as a command ('¡Forma una fila!'), it's also the verb.
Is it 'la forma' or 'el forma'?
'Forma' is always a feminine noun, so you always use 'la forma' for 'the form' and 'una forma' for 'a form'.