Cuando + subjunctive (future time clauses)
B1Grammar path · Lesson 50 of 86 · Stage B1 · The subjunctive
When you talk about something that will happen later, like 'when I graduate' or 'when you arrive', Spanish does not use the future tense after cuando. It uses the present subjunctive, because that moment is not real yet. The pattern is cuando + present subjunctive, and the main clause takes the future, ir a + infinitive or a command: Cuando termine, te llamo. Learners often mix this up with cuando + indicative, which describes habits or facts that already happen: Cuando llego a casa, ceno. Ask yourself whether the event is already real; if it is still ahead, use the subjunctive.
Practise this lesson · 10 sentences
Form
Cuando + subjuntivo presente, futuro / ir a + infinitivo / imperativoCuando + no + subjuntivo presente, futuro / ir a + infinitivo¿Qué + ir a + infinitivo + cuando + subjuntivo presente?Cuando + indicativo presente, presenteWhen to use it
Future plans and promises
Use it to say something will happen after a moment that has not arrived yet. The main clause is usually future or ir a + infinitive.
Instructions and requests
When you tell someone to do something at a future moment, the main clause is a command and cuando takes the subjunctive.
Dreams and uncertain moments
Use it for distant or uncertain moments, such as growing up or having enough money.
Signal words
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I say cuando llegarás?
After time cuando, Spanish never uses the future tense. You say cuando llegues and keep the future for the main clause.
When do I use cuando + indicative?
For habits or past events: Cuando llego a casa, ceno; Cuando llegué, cené. If the event is real, use the indicative.
Does ¿cuándo? with an accent take the subjunctive?
No. In a direct question like ¿Cuándo vienes? or ¿Cuándo vendrás?, the verb is indicative.
Which tenses can the main clause use?
Usually the future, ir a + infinitive, the present with future meaning, or a command: Cuando llegues, llámame.
Do words like en cuanto or tan pronto como follow the same rule?
Yes. When they refer to the future, they also take the subjunctive: En cuanto termine, te escribo.