gustaban
“gustaban” means “they liked” in Spanish (referring to multiple objects or actions being liked).
they liked, you (plural, formal) liked
Also: they used to like, were pleasing (to them)
📝 In Action
A mis hijos les gustaban mucho los dinosaurios cuando eran pequeños.
A2My children really liked dinosaurs when they were little (habitually).
Antes, no me gustaban las verduras, pero ahora sí.
B1Before, I didn't like vegetables, but now I do.
Ellos viajaban a la costa porque les gustaban las olas grandes.
B2They traveled to the coast because they liked the big waves.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
preterite
present
imperfect
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "gustaban" in Spanish:
they liked→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: gustaban
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'gustaban'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *gustāre*, meaning 'to taste' or 'to savor.' Over time, the meaning evolved from physical tasting to general enjoyment or liking, leading to the unique Spanish structure.
First recorded: 13th century (in its current form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'gustaban' end in -an?
The -an ending shows two things: 1) It's the imperfect past tense, and 2) The thing being liked is plural (like 'dogs' or 'movies').
How do I know whether to use 'gustaba' or 'gustaban'?
Look only at the thing being liked. If it is singular (the house), use 'gustaba.' If it is plural (the houses), use 'gustaban.' The person doing the liking (me, you, him, us) does not change this ending.