Connectors

Connectors (linking words) join clauses without starting a new sentence every time. They fall into rough groups:

• Coordinating — link equal parts: y, o, pero, sino
• Subordinating — introduce a dependent clause: porque, cuando, si, aunque

At A1–A2, use indicative after most connectors. Some ( aunque , cuando + future, si + hypothetical) can trigger subjunctive later — learn the common indicative patterns first.

Before a word starting with i- or hi- (hi = silent h + i sound), y becomes e :

✅ padre e hijo · ✅ madre e hija · ✅ Miguel e Irene

Before a word starting with o- or ho- , o becomes u :

✅ siete u ocho · ✅ arquitecto u ingeniero

Only when the next word starts with that sound — not for every vowel.

These introduce a dependent clause . At A1–A2, use indicative for real, habitual, or likely situations:

• Cuando + present → when (whenever / when): Cuando llego a casa, descanso.
• Si + present → if (real condition): Si llueve , me quedo.
• Aunque + indicative → although (fact): Aunque está cansado, trabaja.

With vosotros : Cuando llegáis , llamad .