llame
“llame” means “call” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
callAlso: ring, may call
📝 In Action
Si tiene dudas, llame a la oficina.
A1If you have doubts, call the office (formal command).
Necesito que él me llame inmediatamente.
A2I need him to call me immediately.
Espero que no me llame tan tarde.
A2I hope that he doesn't call me so late.
Word Connections
nameAlso: may be named
📝 In Action
No sé cómo se llame ese plato, pero es delicioso.
A2I don't know what that dish is called (may be named), but it is delicious.
Espero que le llame Juan a su hijo.
B1I hope he names his son Juan.
Piense en un nombre que llame la atención.
B1Think of a name that draws attention.
Word Connections
knockAlso: ring
📝 In Action
Llame antes de entrar.
A2Knock before entering (formal command).
Dudo que alguien llame a la puerta a esta hora.
B2I doubt anyone would knock on the door at this hour.
Es crucial que llame con calma y espere.
B1It is crucial that you knock calmly and wait.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: llame
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'llame' as a formal command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
Llame comes from the Latin verb *clamare*, meaning 'to cry out' or 'to shout.' Over centuries, the initial 'c' softened and eventually changed to the 'll' sound, giving us the modern word for calling or naming.
First recorded: Before the 10th century (as *clamare* derivatives)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'llame' is a command or a subjunctive form?
If 'llame' starts the sentence and is directed at a formal listener (Usted), it's a command (e.g., 'Llame mañana'). If it appears after a verb of wish or doubt and follows 'que' (e.g., 'Dudo que llame'), it's the subjunctive expressing uncertainty.
Is 'llame' always formal?
No. When used for the 'yo' (I) or 'él/ella' (he/she) subjects in the present subjunctive, it is not formal, but rather expresses desire or uncertainty about those subjects: 'Yo quiero que él llame' (I want him to call).