What is the difference between preterit of irregular verbs and the imperfect?
I can't seem to understand the preterite and the imperfect... please help!
2 Answers
Basically speaking the imperfect indicative is used for habitual: that is, repeated actions in the past I was doing /I used to do + the action
eg; I used to walk to work every day in the summer
= Caminaba al trabajo todos los días en el verano
o Solía caminar al trabajo todos los días en el verano
= I was accustomed to walking to work every day in the summer
The preterite or simple past, in contrast, is used for actions that have already been completed and their completeion has been clearly indicated. (ie: that have only happened once and the action has been completed!)
eg: Fui a España la semana pasada
= I went to Spain last week
There are some online videos given by our qualified teacher Paralee Whitmire including one about the preterite v the imperfect. Lesson 2;10 link text
Here is a direct link:
If you require any further information or clarification I would suggest you consult the SpanishDict reference section and look at what is written about the use of these verbs.It is a fantastic resource to help people gain a clearer and more accurate understanding of Spanish grammar. I have provided you with a direct link to the verb section:link text
I hope this helps 
Corrijan mi español, por favor
the preterite is used for actions in the past that were done once:
Ayer, yo fui a la tienda = yesterday, i went to the store
the imperfect is used for continuous actions in the past:
El año pasado, trabajaba en esta tienda = last year, i worked at this store
We use the imperfect because you worked at the store for many days lays year.
-de nada
