Els temps del passat
Study the differences between the descriptive imperfect past and the narrative periphrastic past tense.
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the father
A masculine noun meaning 'father' or 'male parent'. In Catalan past-tense narratives, 'el pare' frequently appears as the subject of actions described with either the imperfect (ongoing/habitual past) or the periphrastic past (completed actions).
El pare llegia el diari cada matí, però ahir va llegir-lo al vespre.
The father used to read the newspaper every morning, but yesterday he read it in the evening.
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the mother
A feminine noun meaning 'mother' or 'female parent'. In Catalan past-tense storytelling, 'la mare' is often the subject of both descriptive imperfect actions (background/setting) and periphrastic past events (specific completed actions).
La mare preparava el sopar quan va sonar el telèfon.
The mother was preparing dinner when the phone rang.
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the parents / the fathers
Plural masculine form of 'pare' – commonly used to mean 'parents' as a mixed or masculine group. In past-tense contexts, 'els pares' appears in both imperfect descriptions of habitual family life and periphrastic past actions.
Els pares sempre anaven a la platja a l'estiu, però l'any passat van anar a la muntanya.
The parents always used to go to the beach in summer, but last year they went to the mountains.
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the mothers
Plural feminine form of 'mare'. Used for groups of mothers or female parents. In past-tense narratives, this plural form can describe collective actions in both the imperfect (ongoing/past habitual) and periphrastic past (specific completed events).
Les mares esperaven els fills a la sortida de l'escola quan va començar a ploure.
The mothers were waiting for their children at the school exit when it started to rain.
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the man
A masculine noun meaning 'man' (adult male) or 'husband'. In past-tense narratives, 'l'home' frequently appears in both descriptive imperfect scenes (what the man was doing/used to do) and action-oriented periphrastic past sentences.
L'home treballava en una fàbrica fins que va trobar una feina millor.
The man used to work in a factory until he found a better job.
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the woman
A feminine noun meaning 'woman' (adult female) or 'wife'. In past-tense storytelling, 'la dona' can be the subject of both imperfect descriptions (background actions) and periphrastic past narrations (specific completed actions).
La dona es mirava al mirall quan va escoltar un soroll a la cuina.
The woman was looking at herself in the mirror when she heard a noise in the kitchen.
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the men
Plural masculine form of 'home'. Refers to groups of men, or generically to 'people' in some contexts. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect habitual actions and periphrastic past sequences.
Els homes jugaven a cartes cada tarda, però dimarts van jugar a dòmino.
The men used to play cards every afternoon, but on Tuesday they played dominoes.
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the women
Plural feminine form of 'dona'. Used for groups of women. In past-tense contexts, 'les dones' commonly appears in both descriptive imperfect (past continuous/habitual) and narrative periphrastic past (specific events).
Les dones conversaven animadament quan va arribar el veí.
The women were chatting animatedly when the neighbor arrived.
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the boy
A masculine noun meaning 'boy' (male child). In past-tense storytelling, 'el nen' is a common subject for both imperfect descriptions (what the boy was doing/used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific completed events in a narrative).
El nen mirava la televisió quan va sentir el tro.
The boy was watching television when he heard the thunder.
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the girl
A feminine noun meaning 'girl' (female child). In Catalan past-tense narratives, 'la nena' appears in both descriptive imperfect contexts (background scenes/habits) and periphrastic past events (specific action sequences).
La nena es quedava a casa de l'àvia cada estiu, però l'any passat va anar a un casal.
The girl used to stay at her grandmother's house every summer, but last year she went to a summer camp.
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the boys / the children
Plural masculine form of 'nen' – commonly used to mean 'children' as a mixed or masculine group. In past-tense narratives, 'els nens' appears in both imperfect descriptions (ongoing/habitual past) and periphrastic past actions (specific completed events).
Els nens jugaven al parc cada dia, però ahir van jugar al pati de casa.
The children used to play in the park every day, but yesterday they played in the backyard.
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the girls
Plural feminine form of 'nena'. Used specifically for groups of girls. In past-tense storytelling, 'les nenes' frequently appears in both imperfect background scenes and periphrastic past action sequences.
Les nenes cantaven una cançó quan el professor va entrar a classe.
The girls were singing a song when the teacher entered the classroom.
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the book
A masculine noun meaning 'book'. In past-tense contexts, 'el llibre' often appears as an object in both imperfect descriptions (what someone was reading/used to read) and periphrastic past narrations (specific reading events).
El llibre que llegia era molt llarg, però el va acabar en tres dies.
The book he was reading was very long, but he finished it in three days.
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the books
Plural masculine form of 'llibre'. Refers to multiple books. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect contexts (what people used to read) and periphrastic past actions (specific events involving multiple books).
Els llibres que tenia a la prestatgeria eren de ciència-ficció, però va comprar-ne uns de novel·la.
The books he had on the shelf were science fiction, but he bought some novels.
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the table
A feminine noun meaning 'table'. In past-tense stories, 'la taula' commonly appears as part of scene-setting in imperfect descriptions (what was on the table, where people were sitting) and as an object in periphrastic past actions (what someone moved or placed).
La taula era plena de menjar quan van arribar els convidats.
The table was full of food when the guests arrived.
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the tables
Plural feminine form of 'taula'. Used for multiple tables. In past-tense contexts, 'les taules' appears in both imperfect descriptions (how the room looked) and periphrastic past actions (moving or arranging tables).
Les taules del restaurant estaven ocupades, però van trobar una taula lliure al jardí.
The restaurant tables were occupied, but they found a free table in the garden.
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the chair
A feminine noun meaning 'chair'. In past-tense storytelling, 'la cadira' appears in imperfect descriptions (setting the scene, describing where people were sitting) and in periphrastic past actions (moving, breaking, or using chairs).
La cadira on s'asseia l'avi era molt vella, però ahir va comprar-ne una de nova.
The chair where grandfather sat was very old, but yesterday he bought a new one.
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the chairs
Plural feminine form of 'cadira'. Used for groups of chairs. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect scenes (describing a room's arrangement) and periphrastic past events (moving or using chairs for a specific purpose).
Les cadires de la sala estaven desordenades fins que les van arreglar abans de la reunió.
The chairs in the room were disorganized until they arranged them before the meeting.
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the car
A masculine noun meaning 'car'. In past-tense narratives, 'el cotxe' is common as a subject or object in both imperfect descriptions (what car someone had/drove) and periphrastic past actions (specific trips, purchases, or incidents).
El cotxe del meu pare era blau, però ell va vendre'l l'any passat.
My father's car was blue, but he sold it last year.
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the cars
Plural masculine form of 'cotxe'. Refers to multiple cars. In past-tense contexts, 'els cotxes' appears in imperfect descriptions (traffic, parking situations) and in periphrastic past actions (specific events involving multiple vehicles).
Els cotxes estaven aparcats en doble fila, i la policia va posar-hi multes.
The cars were double-parked, and the police gave them tickets.
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the airplane
A masculine noun meaning 'airplane' or 'plane'. In past-tense contexts, 'l'avió' commonly appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the plane was doing/was like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like departures, arrivals, or incidents).
L'avió volava baix quan va començar a ploure i va haver de desviar-se.
The airplane was flying low when it started to rain and it had to divert.
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the airplanes
Plural masculine form of 'avió'. Refers to multiple airplanes. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect scenes (describing air traffic conditions) and periphrastic past events (specific aviation incidents or schedules).
Els avions sobrevolaven la ciutat cada matí, però el govern va canviar-ne la ruta.
The airplanes used to fly over the city every morning, but the government changed their route.
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the train
A masculine noun meaning 'train'. In past-tense storytelling, 'el tren' is frequently a subject in both imperfect descriptions (what the train was doing/used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific arrivals, departures, or journeys).
El tren arribava sempre tard, però un dia va arribar a l'hora justa.
The train used to always arrive late, but one day it arrived right on time.
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the trains
Plural masculine form of 'tren'. Used for multiple trains. In past-tense contexts, 'els trens' appears in both imperfect descriptions (service conditions, schedules) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like strikes or changes).
Els trens de Rodalies anaven plens de gent, però la setmana passada van posar més vagons.
The commuter trains used to be full of people, but last week they added more carriages.
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the milk
A feminine noun meaning 'milk'. In past-tense narratives, 'la llet' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what was available, what people used to drink) and periphrastic past actions (specific buying, spilling, or consuming events).
La llet que comprava a la granja era més fresca, però ahir va comprar-la al supermercat.
The milk he used to buy at the farm was fresher, but yesterday he bought it at the supermarket.
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the milks
Plural feminine form of 'llet'. Used for different types of milk or multiple containers/servings. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what was available/used) and periphrastic past actions (specific purchases or consumptions).
Les llets vegetals no existien quan era jove, però ara n'he provat moltes.
Plant-based milks didn't exist when I was young, but now I've tried many.
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the water
A feminine noun meaning 'water'. In past-tense stories, 'l'aigua' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the water was like, where it flowed) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like spills, boiling, or drinking).
L'aigua de la font era molt freda, i els nens van beure'n sense parar.
The water from the fountain was very cold, and the children drank it non-stop.
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the waters
Plural feminine form of 'aigua'. Refers to different bodies of water, types of water, or sources. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the waters were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like flooding or exploration).
Les aigües del riu eren tranquil·les fins que va ploure intensament.
The river waters were calm until it rained heavily.
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the bread
A masculine noun meaning 'bread'. In past-tense contexts, 'el pa' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what bread was eaten/available) and periphrastic past actions (specific buying, baking, or eating events).
El pa que feia la meva àvia era molt bo, però ahir va comprar-ne un de diferent.
The bread my grandmother used to make was very good, but yesterday she bought a different one.
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the breads / the loaves
Plural masculine form of 'pa'. Used for multiple loaves or types of bread. In past-tense stories, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what was available, what people used to buy) and periphrastic past actions (specific purchases or bakery events).
Els pans integrals s'esgotaven cada matí, però avui encara n'hi ha.
The whole wheat loaves used to sell out every morning, but today there are still some.
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the dog
A masculine noun meaning 'dog' (male or generic). In past-tense narratives, 'el gos' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the dog was doing/used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like barking, running, or accidents).
El gos bordava cada nit fins que els veïns van queixar-se.
The dog used to bark every night until the neighbors complained.
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the female dog
A feminine noun meaning 'female dog' or 'bitch'. In past-tense contexts, 'la gossa' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the female dog was like/was doing) and periphrastic past actions (specific breeding, health, or behavioral events).
La gossa tenia els cadells al jardí, però els va portar a casa quan va començar a ploure.
The female dog had her puppies in the garden, but she brought them inside when it started to rain.
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the dogs
Plural masculine form of 'gos'. Used for multiple dogs. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how the dogs behaved regularly) and periphrastic past actions (specific events involving groups of dogs).
Els gossos del parc sempre corrien junts, però ahir van barallar-se per un os.
The dogs in the park always used to run together, but yesterday they fought over a bone.
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the female dogs
Plural feminine form of 'gossa'. Refers specifically to groups of female dogs. In past-tense storytelling, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what they regularly did) and periphrastic past actions (specific group events like mating or competition).
Les gosses s'ajuntaven al parc cada tarda, però aquesta setmana no han vingut.
The female dogs used to gather in the park every afternoon, but this week they haven't come.
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the cat
A masculine noun meaning 'cat' (male or generic). In past-tense narratives, 'el gat' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the cat was doing/used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like escaping, climbing, or hunting).
El gat dormia sempre al sofà, però ahir va dormir al llit del nen.
The cat always used to sleep on the sofa, but yesterday it slept on the boy's bed.
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the female cat
A feminine noun meaning 'female cat'. In past-tense contexts, 'la gata' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the female cat used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like having kittens or exploring).
La gata caçava ratolins cada matí fins que va fer-se vella.
The female cat used to hunt mice every morning until she got old.
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the cats
Plural masculine form of 'gat'. Used for multiple cats. In past-tense stories, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how cats regularly behaved) and periphrastic past actions (specific events involving groups of cats).
Els gats del veïnat pujaven a les teulades, però la setmana passada van caure'n dos.
The neighborhood cats used to climb onto the rooftops, but last week two of them fell.
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the female cats
Plural feminine form of 'gata'. Refers specifically to groups of female cats. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (regular behaviors) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like adoption, mating, or rescue).
Les gates del carrer s'amagaven sota els cotxes fins que els veïns les van alimentar.
The street female cats used to hide under the cars until the neighbors fed them.
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the male teacher / the master
A masculine noun meaning 'male teacher' (elementary) or 'master' (craft/trade). In past-tense narratives, 'el mestre' appears in both imperfect descriptions (how he taught, his habits) and periphrastic past actions (specific teaching events or decisions).
El mestre explicava la lliçó cada dia, però avui va fer un examen sorpresa.
The teacher used to explain the lesson every day, but today he gave a surprise test.
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the female teacher
A feminine noun meaning 'female teacher' (elementary). In past-tense contexts, 'la mestra' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what she did regularly as a teacher) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like assigning projects or organizing activities).
La mestra llegia contes als nens cada divendres, però l'últim dia va portar una titella.
The female teacher used to read stories to the children every Friday, but the last day she brought a puppet.
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the teachers (male/mixed)
Plural masculine form of 'mestre'. Used for groups of teachers that include at least one male. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how they taught, their regular activities) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like meetings or decisions).
Els mestres s'asseien a la sala de professors cada dijous, però ahir van reunir-se al pati.
The teachers used to sit in the teachers' lounge every Thursday, but yesterday they met in the yard.
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the female teachers
Plural feminine form of 'mestra'. Used specifically for groups of female teachers. In past-tense storytelling, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what they regularly did) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like organizing field trips or conferences).
Les mestres preparaven activitats divertides cada setmana, però l'últim dia van sorprendre tothom.
The female teachers used to prepare fun activities every week, but the last day they surprised everyone.
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the male friend
A masculine noun meaning 'male friend'. Takes the elided article l'. In past-tense narratives, 'l'amic' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the friend was like/used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like visits, calls, or trips).
L'amic de l'Àlex venia a casa cada cap de setmana, però el mes passat va mudar-se a València.
Àlex's male friend used to come to the house every weekend, but last month he moved to Valencia.
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the female friend
A feminine noun meaning 'female friend'. Takes the elided article l'. In past-tense contexts, 'l'amiga' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what she used to do) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like sharing secrets, traveling together, or arguments).
L'amiga de la Maria l'acompanyava a l'escola cada dia, però ahir va anar-hi sola.
Maria's female friend used to accompany her to school every day, but yesterday she went alone.
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the friends (male/mixed)
Plural masculine form of 'amic'. The default plural for a group of friends. In past-tense narratives, 'els amics' appears frequently in both imperfect descriptions (what friends regularly did together) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like parties, trips, or arguments).
Els amics quedaven al bar cada divendres, però la setmana passada van anar al cinema.
The friends used to meet at the bar every Friday, but last week they went to the cinema.
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the female friends
Plural feminine form of 'amiga'. Used specifically for groups of female friends. In past-tense storytelling, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (regular activities they shared) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like celebrations, shopping trips, or conversations).
Les amigues es trucaven cada tarda, però ahir van trobar-se al parc.
The female friends used to call each other every afternoon, but yesterday they met at the park.
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the student (singular)
A common-gender noun meaning 'student' (invariable for gender in singular). In past-tense contexts, 'l'estudiant' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the student used to do/study) and periphrastic past actions (specific academic events like exams, projects, or graduations).
L'estudiant de medicina estudiava cada nit fins a tard, però l'any passat va aprovar totes les assignatures.
The medical student used to study every night until late, but last year he/she passed all the subjects.
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the students (male/mixed)
Plural masculine/common form of 'estudiant'. Used for groups of students that include at least one male. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how students regularly behaved) and periphrastic past actions (specific group events like protests, exams, or parties).
Els estudiants de primer feien pràctiques al laboratori cada setmana, però el mes passat van fer un projecte de recerca.
The first-year students used to do lab practice every week, but last month they did a research project.
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the female students
Plural feminine form of 'estudiant'. Used specifically for groups of female students. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (regular activities) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like presentations, competitions, or group trips).
Les estudiants d'arquitectura dibuixaven al taller cada matí, però ahir van presentar els seus dissenys finals.
The female architecture students used to draw in the workshop every morning, but yesterday they presented their final designs.
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the city
A feminine noun meaning 'city' or 'town'. In past-tense stories, 'la ciutat' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the city was like, how it looked) and periphrastic past actions (specific changes, events, or historical moments that happened in the city).
La ciutat era molt tranquil·la abans, però va canviar molt amb el turisme.
The city used to be very quiet before, but it changed a lot with tourism.
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the cities
Plural feminine form of 'ciutat'. Used for multiple cities. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what cities used to be like, how they looked) and periphrastic past actions (specific events, changes, or historical developments across cities).
Les ciutats costaneres eren plenes de vida a l'estiu, però l'any passat van perdre molts turistes.
Coastal cities used to be full of life in summer, but last year they lost many tourists.
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the village / the town
A masculine noun meaning 'village' or 'small town', and also 'people' in some contexts. In past-tense storytelling, 'el poble' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the village was like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like festivals, changes, or migrations).
El poble on vaig néixer era molt petit, però va créixer molt en deu anys.
The village where I was born used to be very small, but it grew a lot in ten years.
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the villages / the towns
Plural masculine form of 'poble'. Used for multiple villages or towns. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what villages were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific changes, festivals, or demographics across villages).
Els pobles de la vall celebraven festes cada estiu, però la sequera va canviar les tradicions.
The villages in the valley used to celebrate festivals every summer, but the drought changed the traditions.
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the path / the way
A masculine noun meaning 'path', 'trail', or 'way'. In past-tense narratives, 'el camí' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the path was like, where it led) and periphrastic past actions (specific journeys, changes, or obstacles on the path).
El camí que portava al far era empedrat i estret, però l'ajuntament el va asfaltar.
The path that led to the lighthouse used to be cobblestoned and narrow, but the city council paved it.
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the paths / the ways
Plural masculine form of 'camí'. Refers to multiple paths or routes. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how paths were) and periphrastic past actions (specific road-building, erosion, or route changes).
Els camins de muntanya eren molt perillosos abans de les obres de restauració.
The mountain paths used to be very dangerous before the restoration works.
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the street
A masculine noun meaning 'street' or 'road'. In past-tense narratives, 'el carrer' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the street was like, how busy it was) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like accidents, construction, or celebrations on the street).
El carrer del meu barri era molt tranquil fins que van obrir el nou centre comercial.
The street in my neighborhood used to be very quiet until they opened the new shopping center.
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the streets
Plural masculine form of 'carrer'. Used for multiple streets. In past-tense storytelling, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what streets were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific urban planning events, construction, or historical changes).
Els carrers del centre eren estrets i foscos, però l'ajuntament va instal·lar llums noves.
The streets in the center used to be narrow and dark, but the city council installed new lights.
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the square / the plaza
A feminine noun meaning 'town square' or 'plaza'. In past-tense narratives, 'la plaça' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the square was like, how it was used) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like markets, concerts, or political gatherings).
La plaça del poble estava plena de parades cada dissabte, però l'ajuntament va traslladar el mercat.
The village square used to be full of stalls every Saturday, but the city council moved the market.
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the squares / the plazas
Plural feminine form of 'plaça'. Used for multiple public squares. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how squares were) and periphrastic past actions (specific events, renovations, or changes across multiple squares).
Les places de Barcelona eren molt concorregudes, però la pandèmia va buidar-les.
Barcelona's squares used to be very crowded, but the pandemic emptied them.
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the flower
A feminine noun meaning 'flower'. In past-tense narratives, 'la flor' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what flowers were like, where they grew) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like blooming, wilting, or being picked).
La flor del meu jardí era vermella l'any passat, però aquest any va sortir-blanca.
The flower in my garden used to be red last year, but this year it came out white.
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the flowers
Plural feminine form of 'flor'. Used for multiple flowers. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what flowers were like, how they grew) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like blooming, withering, or being cut).
Les flors del jardí creixien salvatges fins que el jardiner les va podar.
The flowers in the garden used to grow wild until the gardener pruned them.
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the tree
A masculine noun meaning 'tree', taking the elided article l'. In past-tense contexts, 'l'arbre' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the tree was like, where it stood) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like falling, being cut down, or growing).
L'arbre del davant de casa donava molta ombra, però la tempesta el va trencar.
The tree in front of the house used to give a lot of shade, but the storm broke it.
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the trees
Plural masculine form of 'arbre'. Used for multiple trees. In past-tense storytelling, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what forests were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like planting, cutting, or forest fires).
Els arbres del parc eren molt alts, però l'ajuntament en va tallar alguns per seguretat.
The trees in the park used to be very tall, but the city council cut some down for safety.
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the forest / the woods
A masculine noun meaning 'forest' or 'woodland'. In past-tense narratives, 'el bosc' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the forest was like, how it looked) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like deforestation, fires, or conservation efforts).
El bosc era espès i ple de vida, però l'incendi el va destruir en poques hores.
The forest used to be dense and full of life, but the fire destroyed it in a few hours.
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the forests / the woods
Plural masculine form of 'bosc'. Used for multiple forests. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what forests were generally like) and periphrastic past actions (specific historical events, conservation efforts, or changes across forest regions).
Els boscos del Pirineu estaven plens de fauna fins que la caça furtiva va reduir-la.
The Pyrenees forests used to be full of wildlife until poaching reduced it.
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the river
A masculine noun meaning 'river'. In past-tense stories, 'el riu' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the river was like, how it flowed) and periphrastic past actions (specific floods, droughts, or infrastructure changes).
El riu portava molta aigua a la primavera, però la sequera el va assecar.
The river used to carry lots of water in spring, but the drought dried it up.
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the rivers
Plural masculine form of 'riu'. Used for multiple rivers. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how rivers were) and periphrastic past actions (specific floods, dams, or environmental changes).
Els rius de l'interior eren cabalosos, però les obres hidràuliques els van regular.
Inland rivers used to be full-flowing, but hydraulic works regulated them.
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the sea
A masculine noun meaning 'sea' (or feminine in some dialects). In past-tense contexts, 'el mar' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the sea was like, how it looked) and periphrastic past actions (specific voyages, storms, or environmental events).
El mar estava en calma cada matí, però ahir va aixecar-se una tempesta sobtada.
The sea used to be calm every morning, but yesterday a sudden storm arose.
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the seas
Plural masculine form of 'mar'. Used for multiple seas. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what seas were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific explorations, pollution events, or climate changes).
Els mars tropicals tenien esculls de coral impressionants, però l'escalfament els va blanquejar.
Tropical seas used to have impressive coral reefs, but warming bleached them.
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the mountain
A feminine noun meaning 'mountain'. In past-tense storytelling, 'la muntanya' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the mountain was like, how it was used) and periphrastic past actions (specific hikes, avalanches, or changes in the landscape).
La muntanya estava coberta de neu des de novembre fins a l'abril, però enguany la neu va desaparèixer més aviat.
The mountain used to be covered in snow from November until April, but this year the snow disappeared earlier.
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the mountains
Plural feminine form of 'muntanya'. Used for multiple mountains or ranges. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what mountain landscapes were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like hiking trips, avalanches, or geological changes).
Les muntanyes del Pirineu estaven nevades fins a la primavera, però el canvi climàtic va reduir la neu.
The Pyrenees mountains used to be snow-capped until spring, but climate change reduced the snow.
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the sun
A masculine noun meaning 'sun'. In past-tense contexts, 'el sol' appears in both imperfect descriptions (how the sun was positioned, what the weather was like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like eclipses, sunrises, or hot days).
El sol sortia a les set cada dia, però ahir va sortir més tard per la boira.
The sun used to rise at seven every day, but yesterday it rose later because of the fog.
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the suns
Plural masculine form of 'sol'. Used in astronomical, metaphorical, or poetic contexts for multiple suns. In past-tense narratives, this rare plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what multiple suns were like) and periphrastic past actions (scientific observations or stories).
Els astrònoms de l'antiguitat estudiaven els sols d'altres sistemes, però la tecnologia moderna va confirmar-ne l'existència.
Ancient astronomers used to study suns in other systems, but modern technology confirmed their existence.
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the moon
A feminine noun meaning 'moon'. In past-tense narratives, 'la lluna' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the moon looked like, how it illuminated) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like moon landings, eclipses, or full moon celebrations).
La lluna il·luminava el camí cada nit, però ahir el cel estava ennuvolat.
The moon used to light the path every night, but yesterday the sky was cloudy.
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the moons
Plural feminine form of 'lluna'. Used for multiple moons in astronomical contexts. In past-tense stories, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what moons were observed) and periphrastic past actions (specific discoveries or missions).
Les llunes de Júpiter eren invisibles a simple vista, però Galileu les va descobrir amb el telescopi.
Jupiter's moons used to be invisible to the naked eye, but Galileo discovered them with the telescope.
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the sky / the heaven
A masculine noun meaning 'sky' or 'heaven'. In past-tense contexts, 'el cel' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the sky looked like, how it changed) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like sunsets, storms, or meteor showers).
El cel era blau i clar cada matí, però la contaminació va tornar-lo gris.
The sky used to be blue and clear every morning, but pollution turned it grey.
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the skies / the heavens
Plural masculine form of 'cel'. Used for multiple skies, often in literary, poetic, or descriptive contexts. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how different skies were) and periphrastic past actions (specific phenomena or comparisons).
Els cels del nord eren plens d'aurores boreals, però l'última dècada van ser menys freqüents.
Northern skies used to be full of auroras, but the last decade they became less frequent.
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the day
A masculine noun meaning 'day' (24-hour period or daytime). In past-tense narratives, 'el dia' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what days were like, how they passed) and periphrastic past actions (specific days on which events happened).
El dia començava amb el cant dels ocells, però ahir va començar amb una tempesta.
The day used to start with the birds singing, but yesterday it started with a storm.
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the days
Plural masculine form of 'dia'. Used for multiple days. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what days were like generally) and periphrastic past actions (specific sequences of days or events over time).
Els dies d'estiu eren llargs i calorosos, però aquest any van ser més frescos.
Summer days used to be long and hot, but this year they were cooler.
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the night
A feminine noun meaning 'night' or 'nighttime'. In past-tense narratives, 'la nit' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what nights were like, how they passed) and periphrastic past actions (specific nights when events happened).
La nit era tranquil·la a la plaça fins que els joves van començar a fer soroll.
The night used to be quiet in the square until the young people started making noise.
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the nights
Plural feminine form of 'nit'. Used for multiple nights. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what nights were generally like, how they passed) and periphrastic past actions (specific nights when events happened).
Les nits d'estiu a la costa eren fresques i agradables, però aquest any van ser sufocants.
Summer nights on the coast used to be cool and pleasant, but this year they were stifling.
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the hour / the time
A feminine noun meaning 'hour' or 'clock time', taking the elided article l'. In past-tense contexts, 'l'hora' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what time it generally was, how time passed) and periphrastic past actions (specific times when events occurred or when schedules changed).
L'hora del sopar era sempre a les nou, però ahir van sopar a les deu per l'arribada tardana.
Dinner time used to always be at nine, but yesterday they ate at ten because of the late arrival.
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the hours
Plural feminine form of 'hora'. Used for multiple hours. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how long things used to take) and periphrastic past actions (specific durations or timed events).
Les hores de classe passaven lentament, però l'últim dia van volar.
Class hours used to pass slowly, but the last day they flew by.
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the clock / the watch
A masculine noun meaning 'clock' or 'watch'. In past-tense narratives, 'el rellotge' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the clock was like, how it worked) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like breaking, setting, or the clock stopping).
El rellotge de l'església marcava les hores cada quart, però l'any passat el van silenciar per les queixes.
The church clock used to chime every quarter hour, but last year they silenced it due to complaints.
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the clocks / the watches
Plural masculine form of 'rellotge'. Used for multiple timepieces. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how clocks were) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like adjustments, purchases, or collections).
Els rellotges de l'antiquari sempre funcionaven bé, però el terra de la botiga els va danyar durant la mudança.
The clocks in the antique shop always used to work well, but the shop floor damaged them during the move.
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the bed
A masculine noun meaning 'bed'. In past-tense narratives, 'el llit' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the bed was like, where it was) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like sleeping, moving, or repairing the bed).
El llit de l'habitació de convidats era incòmode, però l'any passat el van substituir per un de nou.
The bed in the guest room used to be uncomfortable, but last year they replaced it with a new one.
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the beds
Plural masculine form of 'llit'. Used for multiple beds. In past-tense stories, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how beds were arranged) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like hotel stays, furniture purchases, or hospital situations).
Els llits del refugi eren durs i estrets, però els voluntaris els van canviar per matalassos nous.
The beds in the shelter used to be hard and narrow, but the volunteers replaced them with new mattresses.
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the door
A feminine noun meaning 'door'. In past-tense narratives, 'la porta' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the door was like, how it operated) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like opening, closing, locking, or knocking on the door).
La porta de l'entrada estava sempre oberta durant el dia, però a la nit la tancaven amb clau.
The front door used to always be open during the day, but at night they locked it.
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the doors
Plural feminine form of 'porta'. Used for multiple doors. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how doors were) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like building, painting, or renovating doors).
Les portes de l'escola s'obrien a les vuit del matí, però la direcció va canviar l'horari.
The school doors used to open at eight in the morning, but the administration changed the schedule.
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the window
A feminine noun meaning 'window'. In past-tense narratives, 'la finestra' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the window was like, how it looked) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like opening, closing, breaking, or cleaning the window).
La finestra del despatx donava al jardí, però l'edifici nou va tapar-ne la vista.
The office window used to look out onto the garden, but the new building blocked the view.
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the windows
Plural feminine form of 'finestra'. Used for multiple windows. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what windows were like, how they looked) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like opening, closing, breaking, or replacing windows).
Les finestres de la casa eren grans i lluminoses, però la reforma les va fer més petites.
The windows in the house used to be large and bright, but the renovation made them smaller.
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the telephone / the phone
A masculine noun meaning 'telephone' or 'phone'. In past-tense contexts, 'el telèfon' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the phone was like, how it worked) and periphrastic past actions (specific calls, events, or changes to the phone system).
El telèfon sonava diverses vegades al dia, però ahir no va sonar ni una vegada.
The telephone used to ring several times a day, but yesterday it didn't ring even once.
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the telephones / the phones
Plural masculine form of 'telèfon'. Used for multiple phones. In past-tense narratives, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what phone systems were like) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like upgrades, installations, or malfunctions).
Els telèfons de l'oficina sempre estaven ocupats, però l'empresa va instal·lar una línia nova.
The office telephones used to always be busy, but the company installed a new line.
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the computer
A masculine noun meaning 'computer', taking the elided article l'. In past-tense stories, 'l'ordinador' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the computer was like, how it performed) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like crashes, upgrades, or purchases).
L'ordinador portàtil funcionava lentament, però la reparació el va deixar com nou.
The laptop used to run slowly, but the repair left it like new.
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the computers
Plural masculine form of 'ordinador'. Used for multiple computers. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (how computer labs or networks were) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like updates, installations, or replacements).
Els ordinadors de l'aula d'informàtica estaven obsolets, però l'escola els va renovar tots.
The computers in the computer lab used to be obsolete, but the school renewed all of them.
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the pen
A masculine noun meaning 'pen' (ballpoint pen). In past-tense narratives, 'el bolígraf' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what the pen was like, how it wrote) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like losing, finding, or buying pens).
El bolígraf que em va regalar la meva àvia escrivia perfectament fins que es va assecar.
The pen my grandmother gave me used to write perfectly until it dried out.
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the pens
Plural masculine form of 'bolígraf'. Used for multiple pens. In past-tense contexts, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what pens were available) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like organizing, losing, or purchasing pens).
Els bolígrafs de la meva motxilla s'escapaven sempre, però vaig comprar un estoig nou.
The pens in my backpack always used to escape, but I bought a new pencil case.
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the paper
A masculine noun meaning 'paper' (material). In past-tense narratives, 'el paper' appears in both imperfect descriptions (what paper was used for, how much was available) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like printing, running out, or buying paper).
El paper de la impressora s'esgotava cada dues setmanes, però l'empresa va reduir el consum.
Printer paper used to run out every two weeks, but the company reduced consumption.
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the papers / the documents
Plural masculine form of 'paper'. Used for multiple sheets, documents, or official papers. In past-tense stories, this plural appears in both imperfect descriptions (what documents were kept) and periphrastic past actions (specific events like organizing, losing, or filing papers).
Els papers de la matrícula estaven desordenats, però la secretària els va classificar per ordre alfabètic.
The enrollment papers used to be disorganized, but the secretary classified them alphabetically.
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I sang
The first-person singular form of the periphrastic past tense (passat perifràstic) for the verb 'cantar' (to sing). This tense combines the present tense of the auxiliary verb 'anar' (to go) with the infinitive, and it is standardly used in Catalan to narrate completed past actions.
Ahir a la nit vaig cantar al karaoke amb els companys de feina.
Last night I sang at the karaoke with my coworkers.
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