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How to Say "don't delay" in Spanish

The Spanish word for “don't delay” is “tardes” — B2 level.

English → SpanishB2

tardes

verbB2
negative command (imperative)
A storybook illustration showing a person walking extremely slowly and reluctantly, dragging one foot, while a small brown rabbit quickly hops past them, symbolizing delay.

Examples

Espero que no tardes mucho en llegar.

I hope you don't take long to arrive.

No tardes en llamarme cuando salgas.

Don't delay calling me when you leave.

Quizás tardes más de lo esperado debido al tráfico.

Maybe you'll take longer than expected due to traffic.

Subjunctive Requirement

'Tardes' is the form you use for the informal 'you' when talking about wishes, doubts, or non-reality. For example, after 'Espero que...' (I hope that...).

Confusing Subjunctive/Indicative

Mistake: “Saying: 'Espero que tú *tardas*' (using the standard present form).”

Correction: When expressing hope or desire, you must change the verb form to the subjunctive: 'Espero que tú *tardes*'.

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