Periphrastic Constructions

A periphrastic construction pairs a helper verb with a non-finite form like an infinitive, gerund or participle to express aspect, intention, or modality. The choice of auxiliary and form shapes the meaning.

Use ir + a + infinitivo to talk about planned or imminent actions. It signals intention to do something in the near future. The structure is straightforward: conjugate ir, add a, then the infinitive.

Use acabar de + infinitivo to describe an action that just happened moments ago. It emphasizes recent completion. Conjugate acabar in the present, then add de and the infinitive.

Use estar + gerundio to describe ongoing actions in the present. It highlights that something is happening right now or around the current time. Conjugate estar and attach the appropriate gerund ending.

Use llevar + gerundio to express how long an action has been happening up to now. It stresses duration rather than momentary activity. Conjugate llevar and add the gerund.

Use seguir or continuar + gerundio to say that an action is still happening. They emphasize the persistence or continuation of an activity. Conjugate the auxiliary and follow with the gerund.

Use dejar de + infinitivo to express stopping or quitting an action. It signals that something no longer happens. Conjugate dejar, add de, then the infinitive.

Use volver a + infinitivo to indicate repeating an action or doing it again. It highlights that the activity resumes after a pause. Conjugate volver, add a, then the infinitive.

Use tener que + infinitivo to express obligation or necessity to do something. It frames actions as required or needed. Conjugate tener, add que, then the infinitive.

Periphrastic constructions combine auxiliaries with infinitives, gerunds or participles to signal aspect, time, intention and modality. Learn key patterns like ir a, acabar de, estar + gerundio and tener que to describe actions more precisely.