suene
“suene” means “may sound” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
may sound, may ring
Also: ring (you formal/I)
📝 In Action
Quiero que la alarma suene a las siete.
A1I want the alarm to ring at seven.
Ojalá que no suene tan mal.
A2I hope it doesn't sound so bad.
¡Que suene la música!
B1Let the music play! (Literally: That the music may sound!)
may seem, may sound like
Also: may suggest
📝 In Action
No creo que me suene familiar su nombre.
B1I don't think his name sounds familiar to me.
Es posible que la historia suene un poco exagerada.
B2It is possible that the story sounds a bit exaggerated.
Dudo que esta propuesta nos suene bien a todos.
B2I doubt that this proposal sounds good to all of us.
Indicative
Imperfect
Present
Preterite
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: suene
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'suene' to express a wish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'sonar' comes from the Latin word 'sonāre,' meaning 'to make a noise' or 'to sound.' The Spanish form 'suene' maintains this core meaning but is adapted to express possibilities, wishes, and commands.
First recorded: Old Spanish (c. 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'sonar' change to 'suene'?
'Sonar' is a stem-changing verb, meaning the vowel in the middle of the verb often changes when you conjugate it. The 'o' changes to 'ue' in most forms, including 'suene,' but not in the 'we' (nosotros) form.
When is 'suene' used as a command?
'Suene' is the formal command for 'usted' (you, formal). If you are politely telling a manager or elder to make a sound, you would use 'suene' (e.g., 'No suene la alarma hasta mañana,' meaning 'Don't ring the alarm until tomorrow').