What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative verb recuerda (remember) and the adverb siempre (always).
Which one should you use?
While recuerda siempre is common, placing the adverb first as siempre recuerda is also a natural way to express the same sentiment. If you want to specifically say 'always remember it', you attach the object pronoun lo to the end of the imperative to get recuérdalo siempre.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
If you want to be more formal, you can use the phrase Tenga siempre en cuenta. In informal settings, you might instead use the phrase No te olvides nunca to mean 'never forget'.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are addressing a group of people, you should use the plural imperative form recuerden siempre instead of the singular recuerda siempre. To say 'always remember it', the object pronoun lo is attached to the end of the imperative, resulting in recuérdalo siempre.
How do you pronounce it?
/rekweɾda sjempɾe/
Did you know?
- The verb recuerda is poetically linked to the human heart, as it originates from the Latin cor. To remember something in Spanish is etymologically to 'bring it back to the heart'.
- The formal alternative tenga siempre en cuenta describes the act of remembering as a bookkeeping task. It literally translates to 'always have in account', treating a piece of advice like a financial entry in a ledger.
- The word siempre shares a root with the English word 'semper' found in the US Marine Corps motto 'Semper Fidelis', which means 'always faithful'.
Examples in context
- Siempre recuerde la importancia de la honestidad.Always remember the importance of honesty.
- Tenga siempre en cuenta las posibles consecuencias de sus acciones.Always remember the potential consequences of your actions.
- Siempre tienes que recordar que la familia es lo más importante.You always have to remember that family is the most important thing.
- Recuerda siempre que te quiero.Always remember that I love you.
- Recuerda siempre tus raíces.Always remember your roots.
- Recuerda siempre traer las llaves.Always remember to bring the keys.
Example conversation
María is giving Daniel some advice before he goes on a trip.
- MaríaDaniel, recuerda siempre llevar tu pasaporte.Daniel, always remember to bring your passport.
- DanielNo te preocupes, María, lo tengo en la maleta.Don't worry, María, I have it in my suitcase.
- MaríaEstá bien, pero no lo olvides.Alright, but don't forget it.
- DanielLo tendré en cuenta, gracias.I will keep that in mind, thanks.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries siempre, CC BY-SA 4.0.
