The sound before p or b is written m in standard Spanish spelling.
The idea
Write m before p and b: cambiar, empezar and también. Recognize these spellings when writing familiar words.
Examples
- Quiero cambiar mi cita.I want to change my appointment.
- La clase está a punto de empezar.The class is about to start.
- También necesito un bolígrafo.I also need a pen.
- Compramos pan fresco.We buy fresh bread.
- La lámpara está en la mesa.The lamp is on the table.
- La ambulancia llega pronto.The ambulance arrives soon.
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Watch out
Do not confuse the nasal sound with a reason to write n before p or b.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct spelling of cambiar. Quiero ___ mi cita. (cambiar / canbiar)
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cambiar
Cambiar is written with m before b.
Choose the correct spelling of empezar. La clase va a ___. (empezar / enpezar)
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empezar
Empezar is written with m before p.
Choose the correct spelling of también. ___ necesito un bolígrafo. (También / Tanbién)
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También
También is written with m before b and an accent.
Practice round
Answer questions, then rebuild Spanish sentences where available. We keep your score.
Choose the correct spelling of cambiar. Quiero ___ mi cita. (cambiar / canbiar)
Choose the correct spelling of empezar. La clase va a ___. (empezar / enpezar)
Choose the correct spelling of también. ___ necesito un bolígrafo. (También / Tanbién)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Choose the correctly spelled word with m before p or b in each sentence.