Ni que + Imperfecto Subjuntivo
✨ How to Use “Ni Que” + Subjunctive in Spanish
📌 What is “Ni Que”?
“Ni que” is a colloquial Spanish expression used to deny, exaggerate, or show reproach or surprise about a situation. It often carries a tone of irony or sarcasm.
In English, it’s similar to saying “as if…” or “don’t tell me…”.
🔁 What verb tense follows “ni que”?
“Ni que” is always followed by the subjunctive, most commonly:
- The imperfect subjunctive
- Or the past perfect (pluperfect) subjunctive
✔️ Ni que fuera millonario.
✔️ Ni que hubieras nacido ayer.
🧠 What does it mean?
This expression introduces an exaggerated or clearly false situation, often with a tone of sarcasm, complaint, or mockery.
It’s like saying:
👉 “Don’t be ridiculous”
👉 “As if that were true…”
📚 Common examples:
- — Let’s eat at that fancy restaurant.
— Ni que fuera rich.
(As if I were rich.) - — You wore a lot of makeup today.
— Ni que fuera going to a wedding. - — Why are you so nervous?
— Ni que te fueran a matar…
(It’s not like they’re going to kill you…) - — Did you speak rudely to your boss?
— Ni que hubiera hecho something wrong.
⚠️ Notes:
- The verb must always be in the subjunctive.
- This expression is very common in spoken Spanish in both Spain and Latin America.
- It often reflects emotion, sarcasm, or personal defense.
📣 Want to speak real, natural Spanish?
👉 In our online and in-person Spanish classes, you’ll learn expressions like “ni que + subjunctive” with practical examples, conversation, and personal feedback.
