Inklingo

How to Say "let's suppose" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pongamos

pohn-GAH-mohs/poŋˈɡamos/

fixed expressionB2
Use 'pongamos' when introducing a hypothetical scenario as a set phrase, often implying a slightly more informal or common conversational context.
A storybook illustration of a woman sitting on a hill, looking up at a thought bubble above her head. Inside the bubble is a fantastical image of a purple pig with tiny wings flying, representing a hypothetical situation.

Examples

Pongamos que te toca la lotería, ¿qué sería lo primero que comprarías?

Let's suppose you win the lottery, what would be the first thing you would buy?

Pongamos que tienes un millón de dólares, ¿qué harías?

Let's suppose you have a million dollars, what would you do?

Pongamos por caso que la reunión se cancela. ¿Cuál es el plan B?

Let's imagine, for argument's sake, that the meeting is canceled. What is Plan B?

Introducing Hypotheses

The phrase 'Pongamos que...' is a quick way to introduce a hypothetical scenario. It's often followed by a verb in the present tense or a conditional structure.

supongamos

/soo-pohn-GAH-mohs//su.ponˈɡa.mos/

verbB1
Use 'supongamos' as a direct verb translation when setting up a hypothetical situation, functioning as the first-person plural of 'suponer' (to suppose).
A person sitting with a thoughtful expression, holding a chin with their hand, and a glowing lightbulb floating above their head to represent a new hypothetical idea.

Examples

Supongamos que el tren se retrasa, ¿qué haremos entonces?

Let's suppose the train is delayed, what will we do then?

Supongamos que mañana no hay clases.

Let's suppose there are no classes tomorrow.

Supongamos por un momento que él tiene razón.

Let's assume for a moment that he is right.

Supongamos que el plan falla, ¿qué haremos?

Let's say the plan fails, what will we do?

The 'Let's' Command

Even though this is a verb form, when we say 'supongamos,' we are usually making a suggestion to a group, like saying 'let's' in English.

Connecting the Idea

In Spanish, you almost always need the word 'que' (meaning 'that') immediately after 'supongamos' to start your hypothetical sentence.

Missing the 'Que'

Mistake: “Supongamos tú tienes razón.”

Correction: Supongamos QUE tú tienes razón.

Pongamos vs. Supongamos

Learners often confuse 'pongamos' and 'supongamos' because both introduce hypotheticals. Remember that 'pongamos' is more idiomatic and common in everyday speech for setting up a scenario, while 'supongamos' is the direct verb form and can feel slightly more formal or analytical.

Related Translations

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