The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is Sé bueno.
This question tests your knowledge of the Spanish imperative mood, which is used to give commands. The English phrase “Be good” is a direct command, and its translation into Spanish depends on the level of formality and whether the command is affirmative (do something) or negative (don’t do something).
Here is a breakdown of why “Sé bueno” is the best translation and why the other options are incorrect:
- Ser bueno: This option uses the infinitive form of the verb, “ser,” which means “to be.” Therefore, “Ser bueno” translates to “to be good.” It is not a command but rather a state of being, often used in phrases like “It is important to be good” (“Es importante ser bueno”). Since the original sentence is a command, this choice is incorrect.
- Seas bueno: This option uses the present subjunctive form for the informal “you” (tú). In Spanish, the present subjunctive is used for negative informal commands, not affirmative ones. For example, the correct way to say “Don’t be bad” would be “No seas malo.” Because “Be good” is an affirmative (positive) command, “Seas bueno” is grammatically incorrect for this purpose.
- Sea bueno: This is the formal (usted) affirmative command. It is a grammatically correct way to say “Be good” to someone you would address formally, such as an elder, a superior, or a stranger.
- Sé bueno: This is the informal (tú) affirmative command. The verb “ser” is irregular in the imperative mood, and its “tú” form is “sé.” This is the command you would give to a friend, a family member, or a child.
Given that both “Sea bueno” and “Sé bueno” are technically correct translations, the “best” answer depends on the implied context. The phrase “Be good” in English often has an informal connotation, frequently used between parents and children or among peers. For this reason, and because it tests the important irregular imperative “sé,” Sé bueno is considered the most fitting and common translation in a general context.
