How would one say "It should not be a problem"?

Question

I ask this because I've seen two ways:

"No debería ser un problema" - This is what I originally thought it would be, but I'm not sure.

"No debiera ser un problema" - This was what someone said it would be, here: http://forum.wordreference.com/showthread.php?t=1780468

Which is correct? The first uses the conditional of deber, the second uses the imperfect subjunctive... I'm sure there's some kind of difference between using these tenses, but, once again, I'm not sure.

Any answers would be appreciated, thanks.

Answer 1

"No debería ser un problema" - This is what I originally thought it would be, but I'm not sure.

It is perfect.

"No debiera ser un problema" - This was what someone said it would be, here:

This is a common exception: you can use the imperfect subjunctive in -ra (debiera) instead of the conditional (debería) in polite sentences with deber, poder and querer only.

And how would I have known that without you Lazarus. :)) - ian-hill, Apr 28, 2011

Is there any difference at all? - ian-hill, Apr 28, 2011

Answer 2

[discussion on same] You have to manually load it for some reason.

Use of the subjunctive in independent clauses. As already mentioned, the subjunctive is seldom used in main clauses, but there are a few exceptions:

• The past subjunctive may be used with the verbs poder, querer, and deber to express courtesy or an attitude of deference.
• (Yo) quisiera pedirte un favor. I'd like to ask you a favor.
• Debieras practicar un poco más. You should practice a little more.
• ¿Pudieran Uds. darme otros ejemplos? Could you give me some other examples?

http://www.proz.com/kudoz/spanish/linguistics/348963-debiera_versus_deber

Answer 3

Both are correct. Usage depends on regions, but it is perfectly understood everywhere the language is spoken.

Answer 4

In Spain it's rarely used subjunctives tenses (but they have used when they're necessary) , the first is perfect.