Inklingo

How to Say "you display" in Spanish

English → Spanish

muestras

/mway-stras//mwestɾas/

verbA1informal
Use 'muestras' when you are asking someone to show or present something they have or have done, often in an informal context.
A smiling, friendly character, drawn in a simple storybook style, holds up a bright red flower with both hands, clearly presenting it to the viewer.

Examples

¿Por qué no me muestras lo que compraste?

Why don't you show me what you bought?

Tú siempre muestras mucho entusiasmo.

You always display a lot of enthusiasm.

Si me muestras cómo se hace, lo intento.

If you show me how it's done, I'll try it.

Irregularity Alert: O to UE

The verb 'mostrar' is irregular because the 'o' in the stem changes to 'ue' in the present tense forms, except for 'nosotros' and 'vosotros'.

Missing the Stem Change

Mistake: “Using 'tú mostras' instead of 'tú muestras'.”

Correction: Always remember the vowel change: 'muestras' helps the word flow better.

luces

/loo-ses//ˈlu.θes/ (Spain) or /ˈlu.ses/ (Latin America)

verbB1
Use 'luces' when someone is proudly showing off or displaying something they are wearing or possess, like clothing or jewelry.
A cheerful cartoon figure standing proudly, modeling a new, vibrant blue hat that is the central focus of the illustration.

Examples

¡Qué bolso tan bonito luces hoy!

What a nice bag you're showing off today!

¿Qué joyas luces hoy? ¡Son preciosas!

What jewelry are you wearing/showing off today? They are beautiful!

Siempre luces muy elegante cuando vas a esa fiesta.

You always look very elegant when you go to that party.

Si luces esa sonrisa, convences a cualquiera.

If you show that smile (literally: If you shine that smile), you convince anyone.

The 'Yo' Form is Special

The verb 'lucir' changes its stem from 'c' to 'zc' only in the 'yo' form (luzco) and in all the forms of the special verb mood used for wishes and doubts (the subjunctive).

Showing off vs. Presenting

Learners often confuse 'luces' (showing off) with 'muestras' (presenting). Remember that 'luces' implies pride in displaying something you own, while 'muestras' is a more general request to see something.

Related Translations

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