ponga
“ponga” means “put” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
put, place, set
Also: lay
📝 In Action
Ponga los libros sobre el escritorio.
A1Put the books on the desk (formal command).
Es necesario que yo ponga atención a la clase.
A2It is necessary that I pay attention to the class (Subjunctive 'I' form).
No creo que mi jefe ponga el dinero mañana.
B1I don't believe that my boss will put the money down tomorrow (Subjunctive 'he' form).
turn on, play
Also: apply, contribute
📝 In Action
Ponga su canción favorita ahora.
A2Play your favorite song now (formal command).
El doctor sugirió que ponga hielo en la rodilla.
B1The doctor suggested that I/he put ice on the knee (Subjunctive necessity).
Si usted no ponga interés, no lo entenderá.
B2If you don't apply interest, you won't understand it.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ponga
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'ponga' correctly as a formal command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin verb *ponere*, meaning 'to put' or 'to place.' Over time, it developed the irregular conjugation pattern seen in the modern Spanish 'ponga.'
First recorded: Around the 10th century (as *poner*)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ponga' a command or a statement?
It can be both! It is used for the formal command ('Usted, ponga...') and also for the 'I' and 'he/she/it/usted' forms in the Subjunctive mood (for wishes, doubts, or necessities).
How is 'ponga' related to 'poner'?
'Ponga' is the special, irregular form (conjugation) of the infinitive verb 'poner' (to put/place). If you need to use 'poner' in a command or after words expressing emotion or doubt, you must use 'ponga' for the formal and singular subjects.