llames
/YAH-mess/
that you call
This image shows the action of calling someone across a distance, representing 'that you call'.
llames(Verb)
that you call
?present subjunctive form
,don't call
?negative command form
that you summon
?formal or literary usage
📝 In Action
Necesito que me llames tan pronto como llegues.
A2I need you to call me as soon as you arrive.
No llames a la puerta ahora; están durmiendo.
A2Don't knock on the door now; they are sleeping.
Es posible que llames al número equivocado.
B1It is possible that you call the wrong number.
💡 Grammar Points
Subjunctive Trigger
This form ('llames') is used after verbs that express desire, emotion, doubt, or necessity, like 'querer que' (to want that) or 'necesitar que' (to need that).
Negative Commands
To tell someone (using 'tú') NOT to do something, you use this exact form: 'No llames' means 'Don't call.' The affirmative command is different: 'Llama' (Call!).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Commands
Mistake: "Using 'No llamas' for 'Don't call.'"
Correction: You must use the subjunctive form for negative 'tú' commands: 'No llames.' The form 'llamas' is only for stating facts: 'Tú llamas' (You call).
⭐ Usage Tips
Mandatory 'Que'
When using 'llames' as the subjunctive, it almost always follows the word 'que' (that) after a main verb: 'Te pido que llames' (I ask you that you call).
The act of assigning an identity or title to something, like a pet, illustrates the meaning 'that you name'.
llames(Verb)
that you name
?giving a name to something
that you be called
?often used with the reflexive 'te'
📝 In Action
Dudo que le llames a tu hijo como tu exnovio.
B1I doubt that you would name your son after your ex-boyfriend.
No importa cómo te llames, siempre serás mi amigo.
B1It doesn't matter what you are called, you will always be my friend.
¡Que no llames a esto 'arte'!
B2Don't call this 'art'!
💡 Grammar Points
The Reflexive Name
When talking about what someone's name is, Spanish uses the reflexive form: 'Me llamo' (I call myself). Therefore, when using the subjunctive for 'tú,' you need 'te llames' (that you call yourself).
⭐ Usage Tips
Expressing Doubt
This meaning often follows expressions of doubt or uncertainty, like 'no creo que' (I don't believe that) or 'dudo que' (I doubt that).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: llames
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'llames' to express a command?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'llames' the same as 'llamas'?
No. They look similar but are used for different purposes. 'Llamas' (indicative) states a fact: 'Tú llamas' (You call). 'Llames' (subjunctive) is used for wishes, doubts, or negative commands: 'Ojalá me llames' (I hope you call me).
How do I know if 'llames' means 'call' or 'name'?
Context is key. If you see the reflexive pronoun 'te' immediately before it ('te llames'), it almost certainly refers to a name: 'No sé cómo te llames' (I don't know what you are called). If it's used with 'a' followed by a person or place, it usually means 'to call' or 'contact': 'Que llames a la oficina' (That you call the office).