Cuando hables con el profesor, usa un tono formal.

When you speak with the teacher, use a formal tone.

Breakdown of Cuando hables con el profesor, usa un tono formal.

• usar: to use
• hablar: to speak
• con: with
• tú: you
• cuando: when
• el profesor: the teacher
• el tono: the tone
• formal: formal

Questions & Answers about Cuando hables con el profesor, usa un tono formal.

Why does the sentence use hables instead of hablas?

Because hables is in the subjunctive mood, which is often used for situations that are not certain or express commands or advice introduced by cuando (in the sense of whenever you speak with the professor). In other words, it emphasizes that you’re anticipating a future interaction and gives the statement a sense of instruction or recommendation.

Why is the imperative form usa used here?

Usa is the informal tú command form of the verb usar. It tells the speaker to use a formal tone when speaking. If you wanted to address someone formally (using usted), you would say use instead.

When do I use cuando + subjunctive in Spanish?

You use cuando + subjunctive to talk about events that haven’t happened yet or are hypothetical, especially in the future tense. It’s also used to express conditions or uncertainty regarding the action.

What does un tono formal mean exactly?

Un tono formal means a formal tone, implying respectful language suitable for someone of higher status or in a professional setting (like a professor). In Spanish, this generally involves polite phrasing, less slang, and sometimes the formal pronoun usted.

Could I say Cuando hablas con el profesor instead of Cuando hables con el profesor?

You could say Cuando hablas con el profesor, usa un tono formal, but it would sound more like a habitual statement or a general fact. Using hables in the subjunctive indicates an instruction or recommendation about future or potential actions, making it sound more like a piece of advice rather than just a statement of fact.