Usted and negative commands
Hable. No hables.
By Fabling Editorial · How we design our guides
Hable. No hables.
Usted commands use the present subjunctive: Hable, Coma. Negative tú commands also use it: No hables. Object pronouns go before a negative command: No lo hagas.
Examples in context
Read the examples and compare their English meanings.
Formal polite requests (Usted)
Use the opposite vowel subjunctive.
Coma más verduras, por favor.
Eat more vegetables, please.
Negative informal orders (No tú)
Add 'no' plus the subjunctive form.
No corras en la piscina.
Don't run in the pool.
Pronoun placement in negatives
The order is no + object pronoun + verb: no me hables.
No me hables ahora.
Don't speak to me now.
Common mix-ups
English speakers mistakenly use the indicative present tense instead of the subjunctive for negative commands.
Do not eat that.
Try a reply
Say or write your answer in Spanish before opening the example.
Tell one friend not to open the door.
Show one possible answer
No abras la puerta.
Other wording can work too. Compare the verb form, agreement, and word order with the lesson. Then try a sentence about your own day.
Keep practicing
Related grammar
Practice Spanish grammar in context
Fabling builds stories and podcast lessons around your vocabulary, interests, and learning progress.
Your first personalized story is free. No card needed.