Inklingo

How to Say "you started" in Spanish

English → Spanish

empezaste

em-peh-ZAS-teh/em.peˈsas.te/

VerbA1Informal
Use this when referring to an informal, singular 'you' completing an action or event in the past.
A colorful storybook illustration of a young runner pushing off the starting block, taking the very first step of a race, symbolizing the beginning of an action.

Examples

¿A qué hora empezaste la reunión?

What time did you start the meeting?

Empezaste a correr hace un mes, ¿verdad?

You started running a month ago, right?

Cuando empezaste a hablar, todos escucharon.

When you started talking, everyone listened.

Action Completed in the Past

This form ('empezaste') tells us that the action of starting was finished at a specific point in the past. It's the simple past tense, used for single, completed events.

Using 'A' before the next verb

When you start doing something, you must use the little word 'a' right after 'empezar': 'Empezaste a estudiar' (You started to study).

Preterite vs. Imperfect

Mistake: “Using 'empezabas' when talking about a specific start time, e.g., 'Ayer, empezabas a llover.'”

Correction: Use 'empezaste' (Ayer, empezó a llover). 'Empezabas' (Imperfect) describes an ongoing state or a repeated action in the past, not a single, sharp beginning.

comenzó

VerbA1Formal
This is the formal singular 'usted' past tense form, used for a general beginning or the start of an event, often in more formal contexts.

Examples

El concierto comenzó justo a tiempo.

The concert started right on time.

entraste

en-TRAS-teh/enˈtɾaste/

VerbB1Neutral
Choose this verb when referring to the specific act of starting a new job, entering a field of study, or joining a group.
Four simple, distinct cartoon figures holding hands in a complete circle, illustrating the act of integration into a group.

Examples

¿Cuándo entraste a trabajar en esa empresa?

When did you start working at that company?

Dicen que entraste en la universidad el año pasado.

They say that you joined the university last year.

Tú entraste a la conversación justo a tiempo para escuchar la noticia.

You entered the conversation just in time to hear the news.

Using 'En'

When 'entrar' means 'to join' or 'to start' a field, it often uses the preposition 'en' (in/into): Entraste en el equipo (You joined the team).

Choosing between 'empezar' and 'comenzar'

Learners often confuse 'empezar' and 'comenzar' because they are very similar in meaning. While 'empezar' is generally more common and used in informal contexts, 'comenzar' can sound more formal and is often used for the start of events. Pay attention to the formality of the situation and your relationship with the person you're addressing.

Related Translations

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