pongas
POHN-gahs
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Quiero que pongas la mesa antes de que lleguen.
B1I want you to set the table before they arrive.
No creo que te pongas ese vestido para la fiesta.
B2I don't think you'll put that dress on for the party. (Used here as part of the reflexive 'ponerse')
¡No pongas excusas! Necesitas terminar el trabajo.
A2Don't make (put) excuses! You need to finish the work.
Es importante que pongas atención a los detalles.
B1It is important that you pay attention to the details.
💡 Grammar Points
Subjunctive Requirement
'Pongas' is the special verb form (subjunctive) used when the sentence expresses a wish, doubt, emotion, or command directed at 'tú' (informal you). Example: 'Dudo que tú lo pongas.' (I doubt that you put it.)
Negative Commands
When telling someone informally ('tú') NOT to do something, you use 'pongas'. The phrase 'No pongas' is a direct, negative command.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Subjunctive and Indicative
Mistake: "Using 'No creo que tú pones...' (I don't think you put...)"
Correction: The correct form is 'No creo que tú pongas...' because expressing doubt requires the subjunctive form.
⭐ Usage Tips
The Reflexive Connection
This form is crucial for the common verb 'ponerse' (to put on clothes, or to become/get [an emotion]). For example: 'Espero que no te pongas triste' (I hope you don't get sad).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: pongas
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'pongas'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'pongas' so different from the infinitive 'poner'?
'Poner' is an irregular verb. In the present tense and the present subjunctive, it adds a 'g' (pongo, ponga, pongas). This 'g' helps distinguish it and is a historical feature of the verb's evolution from Latin.
When do I use 'pongas' instead of 'pones'?
Use 'pongas' when expressing a wish, doubt, emotion, or command (Subjunctive Mood). Use 'pones' when stating a definite fact or asking a simple question (Indicative Mood). Example: 'Sé que pones la mesa' (I know you set the table - FACT) vs. 'Quiero que pongas la mesa' (I want you to set the table - WISH).