Instruction: Spanish Stem-changing verbs: o → ue
Instruction: Stem-Changing Verbs o → ue
Stem-changing verbs, also known as boot verbs, undergo a vowel change in the stem of the verb when conjugated in the present tense. For o → ue stem-changing verbs, the “o” in the stem changes to “ue” in all forms except for the first and second person plural (nosotros/nosotras and vosotros/vosotras). This pattern is common and essential to master for fluency in Spanish.
The Process of Stem-Changing o → ue Verbs
Now, let’s take a look at some examples (below). Look for how the “o” in the stem changes to “ue” in all forms except nosotros and vosotros. Remember, the forms that change are underneath the “boot” (see examples below):
Poder (to be able to/can)
(Notice how the “o” in Poder changes to “ue” under the “boot”)
Almorzar
(Notice how the “o” in Almorzar changes to “ue” under the “boot”)
Volver
(Notice how the “o” in Volverchanges to “ue” under the “boot”)
