Estabas VS Estuvieras

Question

I have been searching around for an answer for a while now, and I have not found any good (and trustworthy) explanations.

In one of my lessons today I heard "No sabía que estuvieras enfermo." (A guy when to the doctor, and when he came home the woman saw the prescription he got from the doctor.)

When I search around I also see that "estaba" is used. Are they both correct? Does the meaning change depending on which one you use?

I read an explanation from a non-native saying that if you use "estabas" it means that you didn't know but now you do, and if you use "estuvieras" it means that you don't really believe it.

Any input?

Answer 1

Yes, both are interchangeable. There is no difference between those two words. They mean exactly the same. As for the explanation that you got from a native, I really don't see the difference. Both would mean that "he/she" was sick and I didn't know. I am also a native, and a teacher! It doesn't mean I am never wrong, but chances are pretty low.

Ahora tengo dudas yo.. ¿Es correcto, gramaticalmente, usar "estuvieras"? ¿O sólo lo entendemos por uso y costumbre? - ale_rd, Jan 23, 2012

Well, I was told they mean the same, but when one uses "estuviera" it adds "doubt" - NikkiLR, Jan 23, 2012

I'm with you. - cogumela, Jan 23, 2012

There is no difference between those two sentences ( in this case) - cogumela, Jan 23, 2012

Absolutely! "Estuvieras" is perfect, high quality Spanish! No doubt about it! - farallon7, Jan 23, 2012

Answer 2

Well estuvieras meaning 'that you were sick' would be logical to use if you didn't believe it, as the subjunctive is the mood of choice if there's any doubt, even if the doubt is only in your mind. But I'm not sure if it necessarily has to carry that nuance. If you say estaba you are declaring it so you must believe it.

It makes sense... I just was not sure since I found that answer online, and the person was NOT a native speaker. - NikkiLR, Jan 23, 2012

It does not make sense to me. The sentences mean exactly the same. - cogumela, Jan 23, 2012

Estabas is what the heading says - albert-fabrik-, Jan 23, 2012

There is no "doubt" at all attached to "estuvieras". It is perfect, logical, simple and pure Spanish - farallon7, Jan 23, 2012