when to use an accent mark?

Question

What are the rules for using an accent mark in Spanish words?

Answer 1

The purpose of accent marks is

1) To indicate where the stress falls on a word when it's pronounced

2) To differentiate between two identical words

If you suspect you need an accent on a word, you should look it up in the dictionary.

This website has some really helpful rules on accent uses, too.

I hope these resources help you

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Answer 2

2) To differentiate between two identical words

To differentiate between identical words, in most cases by signalling which one is pronounced with more stress.

"te" is a pronoun and it is pronounced without stress.

"té" is a noun and it is pronounced with stress.

"que" is a conjunction and it is pronounced without stress.

"qué" is a pronoun and it is pronounced with stress.

I'm stressed either way! :) - cristalino, Aug 15, 2011