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Past: imperfect vs. preterite.

English speaking people are bewildered by the apparent richness of choices afforded by Spanish to describe situations in the past, through the use of past Preterite or Imperfect. However the reverse is true with the present, where English is richer. In both cases the problem is the handling of 'progressive' states or actions.

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Grammatical Notes

Question #1 -

(Story A): El año pasado nosotros a Punta del Este. un viaje muy interesante.

    fuimos
    íbamos

    1 valid answer
    Era
    Fue

    1 valid answer

Question #2 -

(Story B): Normalmente, en los veranos, nosotros a Punta del Este. un viaje muy interesante.

    fuimos
    íbamos

    1 valid answer
    Era
    Fue

    1 valid answer

Question #3 -

(Story A): Desde hace tiempo lo pintoresca que esa ciudad.

    sabía
    supe

    1 valid answer
    era
    fue

    1 valid answer

Question #4 -

(Story B): Con mi estada allí lo pintoresca que esa ciudad.

    sabía
    supe

    1 valid answer
    era
    fue

    1 valid answer

Question #5 -

(Story A): El hotel donde nos piscina y el mar a tres cuadras de la playa.

    alojamos al llegar
    alojábamos siempre

    1 valid answer
    tenía
    tuvo

    1 valid answer
    estuvo
    estaba

    1 valid answer

Question #6 -

(Story B): El hotel donde nos piscina y el mar a tres cuadras de la playa.

    alojamos al llegar
    alojábamos siempre

    1 valid answer
    tenía
    tuvo

    1 valid answer
    estuvo
    estaba

    1 valid answer

Question #7 -

(Story A): Recuerdo como en este viaje a las 10 de la mañana, a nuestros cuartos, que reservados.

    llegamos
    llegábamos

    1 valid answer
    subimos
    subíamos

    1 valid answer
    tuvimos
    teníamos

    1 valid answer

Question #8 -

(Story B): Recuerdo como en estos viajes a las 10 de la mañana, a nuestros cuartos, que reservados.

    llegamos
    llegábamos

    1 valid answer
    subimos
    subíamos

    1 valid answer
    tuvimos
    teníamos

    1 valid answer

Question #9 -

(Story A): Con la expectativa de lo desconocido, nos la ropa de la ciudad y nos la ropa de baño que en nuestras maletas.

    quitamos
    quitábamos

    1 valid answer
    poníamos
    pusimos

    1 valid answer
    traíamos
    trajimos
    estuvo
    estaba

    2 valid answers

Question #10 -

(Story B): En nuestra conocida rutina, nos la ropa de la ciudad y nos la ropa de baño que en nuestras maletas.

    quitamos
    quitábamos

    1 valid answer
    poníamos
    pusimos

    1 valid answer
    traíamos
    trajimos
    estuvo
    estaba

    2 valid answers

Question #11 -

(Story A): Después, como el día asoleado, a la playa donde muchas carpas para alquilar.

    estaba
    estuvo

    1 valid answer
    bajábamos
    bajamos

    1 valid answer
    habia
    hubo

    1 valid answer

Question #12 -

(Story B): Después, cuando el día asoleado, a la playa donde muchas carpas para alquilar.

    estaba
    estuvo

    1 valid answer
    bajábamos
    bajamos

    1 valid answer
    habia
    hubo

    1 valid answer

Question #13 -

(Story A): Todos los días nos temprano a la playa después de desayunar.

    levantábamos
    levantamos

    2 valid answers.
    y fuimos
    e íbamos

    2 valid answers

Question #14 -

(Story B): Todos los días nos temprano a la playa después de desayunar.

    levantábamos
    levantamos

    1 valid answer
    y fuimos
    e íbamos

    1 valid answer

Question #15 -

(Story A): Allí es donde y nos . muchos días hermosos.

    nadamos
    nadábamos

    2 valid answers.
    asoleábamos
    asoleamos

    2 valid answers.
    Hubo
    Había

    1 valid answer

Question #16 -

(Story B): Allí es donde y nos . muchos días hermosos.

    nadamos
    nadábamos

    1 valid answer
    asoleábamos
    asoleamos

    1 valid answer
    Hubo
    Había

    1 valid answer

Question #17 -

(Story A): Un día, uno de mis amigos se mucho rato al sol y se mucho la espalda.

    quedó
    quedaba

    1 valid answer
    quemaba
    quemó

    1 valid answer

Question #18 -

(Story B): Un día, uno de mis amigos se mucho rato al sol y se mucho la espalda.

    quedó
    quedaba

    1 valid answer
    quemaba
    quemó

    1 valid answer

Question #19 -

(Stories A and B): Como necesitado de atención médica, tuvimos que regresar a Montevideo antes de tiempo.

    (he felt)
    (he felt)
    (he did feel)
    (he did feel)
    se sintió
    se sentía
    se sintió
    se sentía

2 valid answers. Can you find them all?

Question #20 -

  • 0 valid answers
    • llohay/archive nfs bg,xattr,dev=458002d 1073649555 ellohay:/archive1 /hmt/elloha

    Top

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    When the 'states of affairs' refers only to a well defined window in time, the Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    When the 'state of affairs' initiates within the reference window, the Preterite is used. English tends to use a different verb altogether. Better than thinking that there is a 'change of meaning', think of English 'did get to ...'; i.e.: sabía and supe compared to knew and did get to know (learned).

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    When the 'states of affairs' refers only to a well defined window in time, the Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 19

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 19

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 19

    Grammatical notes for the drills in this page.

    English speaking people are bewildered by the apparent richness of choices afforded by Spanish to describe situations in the past, through the use of past Preterite or Imperfect. However the reverse is true with the present, where English is richer. In both cases the problem is the handling of 'progressive' states or actions.

    The items covered are:

    1) The use of some terms in these explanations.

    Past window is the window the speaker opens in the past to reference or decribe the action or situation; it may consist of one or several windows of definite or indefinite duration. State of affairs has an 'existential' connotation (as given by to be, or to have) or an 'inner state of mind' connotation (as given by to know, to feel, to fear). Event is a happening at a distinct juncture in time.

    Examples:

    2) The use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Examples: Quest. 1 Quest. 5 Quest. 7 Quest. 9 Quest. 11 Quest. 17 Quest. 18

    3) The use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Examples: Quest. 2 Quest. 6 Quest. 8 Quest. 10 Quest. 12 Quest. 13 Quest. 14 Quest. 15 Quest. 16

    4) The use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Examples: Quest. 2 Quest. 3 Quest. 4 Quest. 5 Quest. 6 Quest. 7 Quest. 8 Quest. 9 Quest. 10 Quest. 11 Quest. 12 Quest. 16 Quest. 19

    5) The use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    When the 'state of affairs' initiates within the reference window, the Preterite is used. English tends to use a different verb altogether. Better than thinking that there is a 'change of meaning', think of English 'did get to ...'; i.e.: sabía and supe compared to knew and did get to know (learned).

    Examples: Quest. 4 Quest. 19

    6) The use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Examples: Quest. 13 Quest. 15

    7) The use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    When the 'states of affairs' refers only to a well defined window in time, the Preterite is used.

    Examples: Quest. 1 Quest. 15

    Main Menu

  • (Story B):

  • Como /1 (he felt) /2 (he did feel) /a se sintió /b se sentía necesitado de atención médica, tuvimos que regresar a Montevideo antes de tiempo. ..
  • "#Q191a" title="Como (he felt) se sintió necesitado de atención médica, tuvimos que regresar a Montevideo antes de tiempo."> (1|a)

  • "#Q191b" title="Como (he felt) se sentía necesitado de atención médica, tuvimos que regresar a Montevideo antes de tiempo."> (1|b)

  • "#Q192a" title="Como (he did feel) se sintió necesitado de atención méd

    Back to question 19

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    "> (2|a)

  • Back to question 20

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    "> (2|b)

      • (he felt)
      (he felt)
      (he did feel)
      (he did feel)
      se sintió
      se sentía
      se sintió
      se sentía

    2 valid answers. Can you find them all?

    Question #1 - The end.

  • 0 valid answers
    • llohay/archive nfs bg,xattr,dev=458002d 1073649555 ellohay:/archive1 /hmt/elloha

    Back to question 20

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    When the 'states of affairs' refers only to a well defined window in time, the Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 1

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 2

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 3

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    When the 'state of affairs' initiates within the reference window, the Preterite is used. English tends to use a different verb altogether. Better than thinking that there is a 'change of meaning', think of English 'did get to ...'; i.e.: sabía and supe compared to knew and did get to know (learned).

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 4

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 5

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 6

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 7

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 8

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 9

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 10

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 11

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 12

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 13

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 14

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    One plausible choice. Check other possibilities!

    Plausible use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    When the 'states of affairs' refers only to a well defined window in time, the Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    Hints?

    Back to question 15

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 16

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 17

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Hints?

    Back to question 18

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 19

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 19

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 19

    Not a valid choice.

    Improper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    Hints?

    Back to question 20

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Hints?

    Back to question 20

    Correct!

    Proper use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    When the 'state of affairs' initiates within the reference window, the Preterite is used. English tends to use a different verb altogether. Better than thinking that there is a 'change of meaning', think of English 'did get to ...'; i.e.: sabía and supe compared to knew and did get to know (learned).

    Hints?

    Back to question 20

    Grammatical notes for the drills in this page.

    English speaking people are bewildered by the apparent richness of choices afforded by Spanish to describe situations in the past, through the use of past Preterite or Imperfect. However the reverse is true with the present, where English is richer. In both cases the problem is the handling of 'progressive' states or actions.

    The items covered are:

    1) The use of some terms in these explanations.

    Past window is the window the speaker opens in the past to reference or decribe the action or situation; it may consist of one or several windows of definite or indefinite duration. State of affairs has an 'existential' connotation (as given by to be, or to have) or an 'inner state of mind' connotation (as given by to know, to feel, to fear). Event is a happening at a distinct juncture in time.

    Examples:

    2) The use of verb for event or sequence of events in the past.

    These are non habitual, finished events, though capable of cyclic repetitions. The Preterite is used.

    Examples: Quest. 1 Quest. 5 Quest. 7 Quest. 9 Quest. 11 Quest. 17 Quest. 18

    3) The use of verb for habitual actions in the past.

    These are 'habitual' actions that in English could be prefaced by 'used to...', 'would...'(not conditional!), or 'normally,...'. The Imperfect is used.

    Examples: Quest. 2 Quest. 6 Quest. 8 Quest. 10 Quest. 12 Quest. 13 Quest. 14 Quest. 15 Quest. 16

    4) The use of verb for normal state of affairs referenced to 'past window'.

    The Imperfect is used when describing a 'normal state of affairs' valid in the 'past window' (even if it is still valid at the present time)

    Examples: Quest. 2 Quest. 3 Quest. 4 Quest. 5 Quest. 6 Quest. 7 Quest. 8 Quest. 9 Quest. 10 Quest. 11 Quest. 12 Quest. 16 Quest. 19 Quest. 20

    5) The use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions initiated in 'past window'.

    When the 'state of affairs' initiates within the reference window, the Preterite is used. English tends to use a different verb altogether. Better than thinking that there is a 'change of meaning', think of English 'did get to ...'; i.e.: sabía and supe compared to knew and did get to know (learned).

    Examples: Quest. 4 Quest. 19 Quest. 20

    6) The use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions treated as events in the past.

    Sometimes the Preterite is used instead of the Imperfect for 'habitual actions' or 'states of affairs' referenced to the 'past window' because the speaker sees them as an 'event' or a 'sequence of repeated events'.

    Examples: Quest. 13 Quest. 15

    7) The use of verb for state of affairs or habitual actions refered to a well defined interval in time.

    When the 'states of affairs' refers only to a well defined window in time, the Preterite is used.

    Examples: Quest. 1 Quest. 15

    Main Menu

    Copyright 1996 Samuel Schiminovich.

    The text and the HTML formatting of these drills is covered by this copyright. One copy of this drill can be downloaded and/or printed for personal use. Unauthorized commercial use of these drills is forbidden, as well as reloading on servers or republishing under unauthorized URL addresses.

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