Understanding the differences between verbs such as quedar vs quedarse is a constant challenge for Spanish students.

Not only is ‘quedar’ versatile for its use in different contexts, but it changes meaning when it becomes reflexive.

This week’s theory podcast is inspired by one of the Real Fast Spanish School Members. The question came after the last theory podcast on the uses of ‘echar‘.

Today we are going to make a few comparisons for quedar vs quedarse. This verb is another verb that has a number of different meanings depending on the context. But we are going to look at a few of the most common contexts. We are also going to explore how the meaning of the verb changes when it becomes reflexive.

Examples from today’s podcast:

To remain / be left with / to meet up – Quedar.

To stay (in one place) – Quedarse.

Is there any rice left? – ¿Queda arroz?

No there is no rice left – No, no queda arroz.

I don’t have any milk left – No me queda leche.

I don’t like how I’m left with this haircut – No me gusta cómo me ha quedado el corte de pelo.

What time are we going to meet? – ¿A que hora vamos a quedar?

Normally I meet with my parents twice a month – Normalmente quedo con mis padres dos veces al mes.

I met up with my best friend this week – He quedado con mi mejor amigo esta semana.

No, I’m staying here – No, me quedo aquí.

How long are you going to stay? – ¿Cuánto tiempo te vas a quedar?

I have to stay here for 3 hours – Tengo que quedarme durante 3 horas.

I was left flipped out (freaked out) – Me he quedado flipado.

My boss started yelling at me and I was left flipped out (or freaked out) – Mi jefe ha empezado a gritarme y me he quedado flipado.

Other episodes mentioned in this podcast:

How else could you explain the differences for quedar vs quedarse in a conversation?

The post Tips 079: Quedar vs Quedarse – How to Use this Handy Spanish Verb appeared first on Real Fast Spanish.