Learn how to make suggestions in Spanish
In Spanish we can use the following structures when we want to make a suggestion:
Have a look at the following examples:
Hace mucho calor hoy. ¿Por qué no vamos a la piscina un rato?It's very hot today. Why don't we go to the swimming pool for a bit?
Notice how in all the above structures the verb is conjugated in El Presente. This is a strict rule for "por qué no..." - it does not admit any other tense. Bear in mind though that, although slightly less common, you may sometimes find El Pretérito Imperfecto Subjuntivo with "y si (no)..." and "qué tal si (no)...":
See also:
- Using the present tense in Spanish for making suggestions
- Using poder to say could [do something] for polite requests and suggestions in Spanish (El Condicional Simple)
- Using the conditional in Spanish to express hypothesis/wish/suggestion in the present or future
- Using deber to say should in Spanish
Want to make sure your Spanish sounds confident? We’ll map your knowledge and give you free lessons to focus on your gaps and mistakes. Start your Brainmap today »
Learn more about these related Spanish grammar topics
Examples and resources
Hace mucho calor hoy. ¿Por qué no vamos a la piscina un rato?It's very hot today. Why don't we go to the swimming pool for a bit?
¿Por qué no habláis con Gerardo? Él siempre da buenos consejos.Why don't you talk to Gerardo? He always gives good advice.
