puede ser
/pwede seɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "can be" is translated into Spanish as puede ser.
It can also be used as a standalone idiomatic response meaning "maybe" or "it's possible" when someone makes a suggestion or asks a question.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase changes to pueden ser when the subject is plural. Additionally, the phrase changes to puedas ser when used in certain subjunctive constructions, such as after expressions of doubt or desire.
Did you know?
- The verb ser in puede ser is a linguistic hybrid. Over time it absorbed the Old Spanish word seer, which came from the Latin word sedēre meaning 'sit'.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, puede ser is used as a subtle way to decline an invitation without saying 'no' directly, acting as a polite social cushion.
- Spanish uses two different verbs for 'to be'. While puede ser describes an inherent quality or identity, the phrase puede estar is used for location or temporary states.
Examples in context
- Tom puede ser burdo.Tom can be clumsy.Tatoeba #5873863 by albrusgher, translation #5757959 by CM
- Eso puede ser peligroso.That can be dangerous.Tatoeba #2462801 by hayastan, translation #2688646 by catcher
- Nada puede ser mejor que eso.Nothing can be better than that.Tatoeba #1467907 by marcelostockle, translation #42875 by CK
- Eso puede ser una buena opciónThat can be a good option
- Podría ser interesante analizar otras alternativasIt can be interesting to analyze other alternatives
- Pudiera ser conveniente contactar a un expertoIt can be convenient to contact an expert
- Creo que puede ser una buena películaI think it can be a good movie
- Puede ser divertido ver ese showIt can be fun to watch that show
- Puede que sea difícil encontrar estacionamiento en esta áreaIt may be difficult to find parking in this area
- 93 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Maria and Javier are discussing a possible problem with a new car.
- MaríaPuede ser un error de la computadora.It can be a computer error.
- JavierEs posible, pero no estoy seguro.It's possible, but I'm not sure.
- MaríaJavier, puede ser muy caro arreglarlo.Javier, it can be very expensive to fix it.
- JavierTienes razón, María.You are right, Maria.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ser, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
