Spanish grammar: perífrasis verbales básicas

What this grammar point covers

In Spanish, basic verbal periphrases are two-verb constructions that express actions in progress, intention, obligation, or the near future. One verb is conjugated and the other is in the infinitive or gerund.

When to use it

Use these forms in Spanish to talk about what someone is going to do, what they have to do, or what they are doing right now.

Key forms

• ir a + infinitivo
• tener que + infinitivo
• estar + gerundio

Examples

Tips

• Remember to conjugate only the first verb; the second verb stays in the infinitive or gerund.
• Do not use 'de' after 'tener que' or 'ir a'. For example: 'tengo que estudiar', not 'tengo de que estudiar'.
• With 'estar + gerundio', make sure to use the correct form of 'estar' for the subject.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs may have irregular forms (for example, 'ir' is irregular: voy, vas, va...).