trates
“trates” means “you treat” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
you treat, you deal with
Also: don't treat, you handle
📝 In Action
Espero que trates a mi hermana con respeto.
A2I hope you treat my sister with respect.
No trates este asunto como si no fuera importante.
B1Don't treat this matter as if it weren't important.
Quiero que trates de arreglarlo tú mismo.
A2I want you to try to fix it yourself. (Note: This is the 'try' meaning, but the verb form is the same.)
you try
Also: you attempt, don't try
📝 In Action
Te pido que trates de concentrarte en la clase.
B1I ask that you try to concentrate in class.
No trates de abrir la caja sin la llave.
B1Don't try to open the box without the key.
Si quieres un ascenso, es mejor que trates de ser más proactivo.
B2If you want a raise, it's better that you try to be more proactive.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
preterite
present
imperfect
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: trates
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'trates' to mean 'try'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'tratar' comes from the Vulgar Latin word *tractāre*, which meant 'to handle, to manage, or to deal with.' It is related to the idea of drawing or pulling something (like a rope) to manage it.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'trates' sound like an instruction or request?
'Trates' is the 'tú' form of the present subjunctive. This special verb form is used when talking about things that are uncertain, desired, or necessary—like giving a command, expressing a wish, or stating a necessity. It is the core form for all negative 'tú' commands ('No trates').
Is 'trates' the only way to say 'you treat'?
No. If you are talking about a definite, ongoing action, you use the indicative form, 'tú tratas' (You treat your friends well). If you are talking about a wish, doubt, or command, you use 'tú trates' (I hope you treat...). They serve different purposes.