
preguntan
preh-GOON-tahn
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Los turistas siempre preguntan por la catedral.
A1The tourists always ask about the cathedral.
Mis padres preguntan cuándo vamos a volver a casa.
A2My parents ask when we are going to return home.
Ustedes preguntan mucho, y eso es bueno.
B1You all ask a lot of questions, and that is good.
💡 Grammar Points
The 'They/You All' Form
This form, 'preguntan', is always used when the action of asking is done by a group of people ('they', 'ellos/ellas') or a formal group you are addressing ('you all', 'ustedes').
Asking for Information vs. Asking for Things
Use 'preguntar' only when asking a question to get information. If you are asking for a physical object or a favor, you must use the verb 'pedir' instead.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'por' incorrectly
Mistake: "Ellos preguntan por el precio."
Correction: Ellos preguntan el precio. (You usually don't need 'por' when asking for a direct object, like the price.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Using 'por'
You do need 'por' when asking 'about' someone or something: 'Preguntan por María' (They ask about Maria).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: preguntan
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'preguntan'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'preguntan' only used for questions?
Yes, 'preguntar' is strictly for asking a question or seeking information. If you want to ask for a favor, money, or a physical item, you must use the verb 'pedir' (they ask for = 'piden').
Does 'preguntan' mean 'they ask' or 'you all ask'?
It means both! It is the 3rd person plural form, used for 'ellos' (they), 'ellas' (they, female), and 'ustedes' (you all, formal). Context usually makes the meaning clear.