Instruction: Spanish Subjunctive – Spelling Changes for Consistent Sounds

In Spanish, maintaining consistent pronunciation is essential, particularly when conjugating verbs in the subjunctive mood. Certain verbs require spelling changes in the present subjunctive to preserve the correct sound, especially when dealing with the letters “g” and “c.” These spelling changes ensure that the verbs retain their intended soft or hard sounds, depending on the vowel that follows. This lesson will categorize these spelling changes based on whether they are preserving a soft or hard sound.

Understanding Hard vs. Soft Sounds with “g” and “c”

• Soft “g”: Before e or i, “g” sounds similar to the English “h” in “huge.”
  (e.g., gente, gigante)

• Hard “g”: Before a, o, or u, “g” sounds like the “g” in “go.”
  (e.g., gato, gusto)

• Soft “c”: Before e or i, “c” sounds like the “s” in “see” (or “th” in Spain).
  (e.g., cena, cine)

• Hard “c”: Before a, o, or u, “c” sounds like a “k” as in the word “cat.”
  (e.g., casa, cosa)

1. Soft “g” Sound

When verbs with a soft “g” sound are conjugated in the present subjunctive, the “g” often changes to “j” before the vowels “e” and “i” to maintain the soft sound.

Examples:

Coger: g to j (to catch, to grab)