I´ve been asked many times how to use the English form "let´s" in Spanish, and I think I finally figured out a way to explain it easily.
Let´s start by analyzing "let´s" a little bit. In English, the form "let´s" is used to invite or urge others to do or not do something. Is the form "let´s" a command? Not really, if we consider that the command form, by definition, applies only to the second person, and "let´s" is the first person plural.
So, if "let´s" is not a command, what is it then? The answer is, "let´s" is more like an invitation. Or a wish, if you will. And in Spanish, whenever we start talking about wishes, we use the subjunctive mood.
Let´s analyze the following expressions and their translations.
Note how "let´s eat" does not translate into the indicative form "comemos", but to the subjunctive form "comamos". Therefore, if you want to use the invitational form "let´s" in Spanish, you must know the subjunctive conjugation of the appropriate verb.
Some people use the "vamos a" form to express "let´s" . Let´s see how they do it:
- Let´s play! (¡Vamos a jugar!)
- Let´s do it! (¡Vamos a hacerlo!)
If you feel like using the "vamos a" form instead of the subjunctive, go ahead. Spanish speakers will understand what you mean. Just keep in mind that "vamos a" does not express a wish but a fact, and it is the equivalent of the "going to" form in English.
- ¡Vamos a jugar! (We are going to play!)
- ¡Vamos a hacerlo! (We are going to do it!)
Is "vamos a jugar" the same as "juguemos"? Not really... That said, there are a few situations in which we use the infinitive form as an alternative to the command. You will usually see these in written instructions or public signs.
- No fumar (No smoking.)
- Para mayor información acerca del virus HIV, consultar a su médico.
(For more information on the HIV virus, ask your doctor.)
Click here to practice the commands and many other
aspects of Spanish grammar.
