Dequeísmo and Queísmo: Guide to Common Advanced Spanish Errors

For any learner aiming for C1-level proficiency in Spanish, mastering subtle grammatical nuances is key. Among the most common stumbling blocks—even for some native speakers—are the twin errors known as dequeísmo and queísmo . Understanding and avoiding these mistakes will significantly elevate the quality and accuracy of your Spanish.

This guide will clearly define both concepts, provide easy-to-remember examples, and offer practical tips to ensure your grammar is always correct.

🧐 What are Dequeísmo and Queísmo?

In short, these terms describe the incorrect use of the conjunction “que” and the preposition “de”:

• Dequeísmo is the error of incorrectly using “de que” when only “que” is required . It is adding an unnecessary “de.”
• Queísmo is the opposite error: incorrectly using “que” when “de que” is the required structure . It is omitting a necessary “de.”

Both mistakes occur in sentences that contain a main clause and a subordinate clause .

❌ Understanding Dequeísmo (Using “de que” incorrectly)

Dequeísmo happens when a verb that does not require a preposition is wrongly followed by “de que” instead of just “que” .

Common examples with correct versions:

• Pensar + que:
  • Incorrect (Dequeísmo): Pienso de que gritar no es bueno.
  • Correct: Pienso que gritar no es bueno. (I think yelling is not good) 
• Creer + que:
  • Incorrect (Dequeísmo): Creo de que tienes razón.
  • Correct: Creo que tienes razón. (I believe you are right)
• Suponer + que:
  • Incorrect (Dequeísmo): Supongo de que ya te has enterado de la noticia.
  • Correct: Supongo que ya te has enterado de la noticia. (I suppose you have already heard the news) 

A Special Case: Sometimes, dequeísmo appears with verbs that do need a preposition, but the wrong one is used. For instance, verbs like confiar en (to trust) or insistir en (to insist on) require the preposition “en.” Using “de” with them is also dequeísmo .

• Correct: Confío en que me estés contando la verdad. (I trust that you are telling me the truth)
• Incorrect (Dequeísmo): Confío de que me estés contando la verdad. 

❌ Understanding Queísmo (Using “que” incorrectly)

Queísmo is the error of omitting a necessary “de” (or sometimes another preposition) before “que” .

Common examples with correct versions:

• Alegrarse + de que:
  • Incorrect (Queísmo): Me alegro que estés contenta en tu trabajo.
  • Correct: Me alegro de que estés contenta en tu trabajo. (I am glad that you are happy in your job) 
• Acordarse + de que:
  • Incorrect (Queísmo): Me acuerdo que estuve en esa plaza hace años.
  • Correct: Me acuerdo de que estuve en esa plaza hace años. (I remember that I was in that square years ago) 
• Estar seguro + de que:
  • Incorrect (Queísmo): Estoy seguro que dejé la cartera en casa.
  • Correct: Estoy seguro de que dejé la cartera en casa. (I am sure that I left the wallet at home) 
• Darse cuenta + de que:
  • Incorrect (Queísmo): Me di cuenta que ya no lo quería.
  • Correct: Me di cuenta de que ya no lo quería. (I realized that I didn’t love him any more) 

🛠️ How to Avoid These Common Mistakes

So, how can you ensure you’re using the correct structure? Here are two key strategies:

1. Learn Verb Patterns: The simplest way is to learn and practice the specific preposition that follows a verb. When you learn a new verb like alegrarse, memorize it as alegrarse de. When you learn pensar, memorize it as pensar que .
2. Use the “Question” Test: A useful trick is to turn the subordinate clause into a question. If the question would be formed with “de qué” or “de quién,” then you need “de que” in the statement. If not, use only “que” .
   • For example: Me alegro de que estés aquí. (You would ask: ¿De qué te alegras? – “Of what are you glad?” This confirms “de” is needed.)
   • For example: Pienso que es verdad. (You would ask: ¿Qué piensas? – “What do you think?” This confirms no “de” is needed.)

Mastering these rules is a clear sign of advanced Spanish proficiency. A great next step is to practice what you’ve learned.

Ready to test your knowledge? Take our interactive DELE C1 Quiz: Dequeísmo and Queísmo to solidify your understanding and get instant feedback!