Inklingo

How to Say "let's put" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pongamos

pohn-GAH-mohs/poŋˈɡamos/

verbA2
Use 'pongamos' when suggesting an action or placing something in a specific location, like setting the table or putting on clothes.
A storybook illustration showing two children cooperating to place a bright red apple into a small wooden box, illustrating the action of 'let's put.'

Examples

Pongamos los libros en la estantería.

Let's put the books on the shelf.

Pongamos la mesa antes de que lleguen los invitados.

Let's set the table before the guests arrive.

Es crucial que pongamos atención a los detalles.

It is crucial that we pay attention to the details.

No pongamos excusas y terminemos el trabajo.

Let's not make excuses and let's finish the work.

The 'Let's' Form

In Spanish, the 'nosotros' (we) form of the affirmative command ('Let's...') is identical to the present subjunctive form. So, 'Pongamos' means 'Let's put/place.'

Subjunctive Trigger

When used after expressions of necessity, desire, or influence (like 'queremos que' or 'es importante que'), 'pongamos' is the required verb form for 'we put/place.'

Using the Indicative for Commands

Mistake: “Usar 'ponemos' para decir 'Let's put.'”

Correction: Always use 'pongamos' (the subjunctive form) for 'Let's...' commands and suggestions. 'Ponemos' just means 'We put' (a fact).

echemos

/eh-CHAY-mohs//eˈtʃemos/

verbA2
Use 'echemos' when suggesting adding something, often in a figurative sense like adding an ingredient or starting a race.
Two children in a sunny park tossing a bright red ball to each other.

Examples

Echemos un poco más de sal a la sopa.

Let's put a little more salt in the soup.

¡Echemos una carrera hasta la esquina!

Let's have a race to the corner!

Es mejor que echemos la basura ahora.

It's better that we throw the trash out now.

The 'Let's' Trigger

In Spanish, the word 'echemos' acts like the English 'Let's' when used as a command or suggestion for a group you are part of.

The 'Eche' vs 'Echa' rule

Notice the 'e' at the end of 'echemos'. This 'e' often signals that you are expressing a wish, a doubt, or making a suggestion rather than stating a hard fact.

Echamos vs. Echemos

Mistake: “Using 'echamos' to say 'let's throw'.”

Correction: Use 'echamos' for 'we throw' (fact) and 'echemos' for 'let's throw' (suggestion).

Action vs. Addition

Learners often confuse 'pongamos' and 'echemos' by using 'echemos' for physical placement. Remember, 'pongamos' is for actions like setting or placing, while 'echemos' is more about adding or starting something.

Related Translations

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