gusta, gusto,or guatas

Question

According to the lesson 1-6 " likes, dislikes,and days of the week", I was confused about the following sentences: "Le gusta bailar=he/she likes to dance"or "you (formal) like to dance." Undoubtedly, these two sentences are correct.
But... 1."Me gusta bailar = I like to dance." why is not " Me gusto bailar."? coz I think this is 'singular' 'yo" form. 2."Te gusta bailar=you like to dance." and why is not "Te gustas bailar."? THX A LOT~

Answer 1

Perhaps this lesson will help.

Short and sweet - gohern, Mar 9, 2013

Answer 2

It's a little confusing, because it's not how we say it in English. With "gustar," the subject is what is "liked." Think of it like if you were saying "pleases" eg Me gusta comer chocolate--> Eating chocolate pleases me. That is why you will never see it conjugated with gusto, or gustas. The exception would be if you say "me gustas tú" which would be "I like you" (Think of it like You please me for the conjugation). Be careful with saying me gustas though, it often has more of a sexual connotation. If you want to say you like someone, in this case Juan, say "Me cae bien Juan" which again you notice has the same verb format as "gustar." I know it's a little strange at first, but you get used to it with practice.

excellent answer BigMike - gohern, Mar 9, 2013