Learn expressing preferences and needs in Spanish (Mexican). Build fluency with personalized exercises, chats, and video recommendations.
To talk about what you prefer and need in Spanish, you'll use two main types of verbs: verbs like gustar for preferences and modal verbs for needs.
Expressing Preferences: Spanish does this with an interesting construction where the thing you like is the subject, and the person who likes it shows up as an indirect object.
(A mí) Me gusta(n) ... = I like ...(A ti)Te gusta(n) ... = You like ...(A él/ella/usted)Le gusta(n) ... = He/She/You(formal) like ...(A nosotros)Nos gusta(n) ... = We like ...Note: gusta with singular nouns/verbs, gustan with plural nouns.
For "I prefer," use preferir:
Prefiero el café. = I prefer coffee.Prefiero leer. = I prefer to read.Asking about preferences:
¿Qué te gusta hacer? = What do you like to do?¿Prefieres agua o jugo? = Do you prefer water or juice?Expressing Needs: Use tener que (to have to) or necesitar (to need):
Tengo que estudiar. = I have to study.Necesito ayuda. = I need help.Also common: deber (should) for suggestions:
Debo trabajar mañana. = I should work tomorrow.Related Topics: Spanish verbs like gustar, Using preferir, Talking about obligations