Instruction: Spanish Stem-changing verbs: e → i
Instruction: Stem-Changing Verbs e → i
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 e → i stem-changing verbs, the “e” in the stem changes to “i” 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 e → i Verbs
Now, let’s take a look at some examples (below). Look for how the “e” in the stem changes to “i” in all forms except nosotros and vosotros. Remember, the forms that change are underneath the “boot” (see examples below):
Decir (to say / tell)
(Notice how the “e” in Decir changes to “i” under the “boot.” Note that there are some other spelling changes; we’ll talk about those in a different lesson.)
Pedir (to ask for / order)
(Notice how the “e” in Pedir changes to “i” under the “boot.”)
Seguir (to continue/follow)
(Notice how the “e” in Decir changes to “i” under the “boot.” Note that there are some other spelling changes; we’ll talk about those in a different lesson.)
