guste
“guste” means “may like” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
may like, might be pleasing
Also: likes (subjunctive form)
📝 In Action
Espero que te guste el regalo.
A2I hope you like the gift.
No creo que le guste mi idea.
B1I don't think he/she likes my idea.
Quiero que me guste el nuevo trabajo.
B1I want to like the new job.
enjoy it, like it
Also: find it pleasing
📝 In Action
Pruébelo, señor. ¡Que le guste!
B1Try it, sir. May you enjoy it!
Si no le gusta el diseño, no lo guste.
B2If you don't like the design, don't like it (don't approve of it).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: guste
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'guste' to express an emotion or desire?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin verb *gustāre*, meaning 'to taste' or 'to savor.' Over time, the meaning shifted from physical tasting to emotional 'tasting' or 'finding agreeable,' which is the sense of liking we use today.
First recorded: 10th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'guste' sound like 'gusta' but mean something different?
'Gusta' is the standard form used for facts ('He likes it'). 'Guste' is a special form (called the subjunctive) used when you are talking about wishes, doubts, or emotions related to someone liking something. They share the same base but are used for different mental states.
Can I use 'guste' when speaking informally to a friend?
Yes, but only in the context of the subjunctive (expressing wishes or doubts, like 'Espero que te guste'). You would not use 'guste' as a direct command to a friend; for that, you use the informal command 'gusta' (e.g., '¡Gusta la comida!').