Chapter 6 Questions

Question 1

Which is used to indicate simultaneous actions in the past, the imperfect or the preterit?

Answer 1

The imperfect is used to indicate simultaneous actions in the past.

Question 2

Which is used to “interrupt” an ongoing or background action happening in the past, the imperfect or the preterit?

Answer 2

The preterit is used to “interrupt” an ongoing or background action happening in the past, the imperfect or the preterit?

Question 3

What are the two constructions using “hacer” (and the question forms) to express an action that went on for a period of time in the past? (imperfect)

Answer 3

If you want to express an action that went on for a period of time in the past, you may use the following constructions: 1) hacía + expression of time + que + verb in the imperfect, or 2) verb in the imperfect + desde hacía + expression of time. The question forms are: 1. ¿Cuánto (tiempo) hacía que + verb in the imperfect?; 2. ¿Hacía cuánto (tiempo) que + verb in the imperfect?; 3. Desde cuándo + verb in the imperfect?

Question 4

What is the construction using “hacer” to express a past action that took place at a specific time (ago)? (preterit)

Answer 4

If you want to express a past action that took place at a specific time (ago), use the preterit in the following construction: Hace + expression of time + que + verb in the preterit.

Question 5

How is “ponerse” used to express “to become” in the past?

Answer 5

Use ponerse + adjective to express changes of an emotional or physical nature.

Question 6

How is “volverse” used to express “to become” in the past?

Answer 6

Use volverse + adjective to express an involuntary or sudden change

Question 7

How is “hacerse” used to express “to become” in the past?

Answer 7

Use hacerce + noun or adjective or llegar a ser + adjective (not reflexive) to express a profession or social status which required effort, dedication and time.