Preterite vs Imperfect: Key Concepts and Applications

What is the primary use of the preterite tense in Spanish?

• To describe ongoing actions

• To talk about habits

• To set the scene in a story

• To narrate distinct, isolated events

Which verb is commonly seen in preterite because it signifies a one-time event?

• Vivir (to live)

• Tener (to have)

• Nacer (to be born)

• Comer (to eat)

Which of the following is NOT a typical use of the preterite tense?

• Talking about a completed action

• Narrating a sequence of events

• Describing weather

• Describing an isolated event

Which phrase typically sets up the preterite tense?

• Una vez (One time)

• Todos los días (Every day)

• Cada año (Every year)

• Siempre (Always)

What does the imperfect tense typically describe?

• One-time events

• Repeated actions or habits

• Specific moments

• Future intentions

Which key phrase indicates the use of the imperfect tense?

• El año pasado (Last year)

• Por un momento (For a moment)

• Todos los sábados (Every Saturday)

• Ayer (Yesterday)

What does the imperfect tense use to describe?

• One-time events

• Future plans

• Physical appearance

• Completed actions

How does the verb 'conocer' change meaning between preterite and imperfect?

• In preterite, it means 'to meet'; in imperfect, 'to know someone'

• In preterite, it means 'to know'; in imperfect, 'to meet someone'

• No change in meaning

• In preterite, it means 'to forget'; in imperfect, 'to remember'

What mnemonic device is suggested for remembering uses of the imperfect tense?

• SER PIR

• VISTA

• OPA TWA FEB

• CAR GAR ZAR

Which verb changes meaning from 'to know' to 'to find out' when used in preterite?

• Conocer

• Saber

• Querer

• Poder