pierdes
“pierdes” means “you lose” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
you lose
Also: you are losing, you misplace
📝 In Action
Si no miras el mapa, pierdes el camino.
A2If you don't look at the map, you lose the way.
¿Por qué siempre pierdes las llaves?
A1Why do you always lose your keys?
Si juegas mal, pierdes el partido.
A2If you play badly, you lose the match.
you miss
Also: you waste
📝 In Action
Si llegas tarde, pierdes el tren.
B1If you arrive late, you miss the train.
Si no estudias, pierdes una gran oportunidad.
B1If you don't study, you miss a great opportunity.
Si no te apuras, pierdes la entrada al concierto.
B2If you don't hurry up, you miss the concert entry.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pierdes
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'pierdes' correctly to mean 'you miss (a chance)'?
📚 More Resources
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The Spanish verb 'perder' comes directly from the Latin verb *perdere*, which meant 'to destroy' or 'to lose/throw away'. This shows that the original sense of losing was often tied to destruction or ruin.
First recorded: Old Spanish (around 10th-12th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'pierdes' and 'pierda'?
'Pierdes' is the form you use when stating a fact or asking a direct question ('Tú pierdes el juego' - You are losing the game). 'Pierda' is the special form (subjunctive) used when expressing wishes, doubts, or indirect commands, usually after 'que' ('Espero que no pierdas' - I hope that you don't lose).
Is 'pierdes' formal or informal?
'Pierdes' is the informal way to address one person (tú form). If you need to be formal or address someone you don't know well, you should use 'pierde' (the usted form).