Spanish grammar: verbos gustar y similares

What this grammar point covers

In Spanish, 'gustar' and similar verbs are used to say what you like, what interests you, or what bothers you. These verbs work differently than in English: the thing that is liked is the subject, and the person who likes it is an indirect object.

When to use it

Use 'gustar' and similar verbs to talk about things you like, love, interest you, or bother you. It is common with hobbies, food, people, or activities.

Key forms

• me gusta (I like...)
• te gusta (you like...)
• le gusta (he/she/you formal likes...)
• nos gusta (we like...)
• os gusta (you all like...)
• les gusta (they/you all like...)
• For plural things: me gustan, te gustan, etc.

Examples

Tips

• Remember: the verb agrees with the thing you like, not with the person.
• Use 'me', 'te', 'le', etc. before the verb.
• For actions (verbs), use the singular: me gusta bailar.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Sometimes you see 'a mí', 'a ti', etc. for emphasis or clarity: 'A mí me gusta...'.