puedes
/pwedes/from spelling rules
The English phrase "can you" is translated into Spanish as puedes.
This phrase is used to ask if someone has the ability or permission to do something.
What does it mean word for word?
puedes is a conjugated form of the verb poder, which literally means "to be able to" or "to have the power to".
Which one should you use?
The default form puedes is specifically for the informal "tú" (you). For a more polite way to say "could you" when making requests, use podría.
How does it change in a sentence?
When addressing someone formally (singular), use puede. When addressing a group (plural), use pueden.
How do you pronounce it?
/pwedes/
Did you know?
- While puedes asks about ability, Spanish speakers often use the verb saber to say 'can you' when referring to a learned skill, such as playing an instrument or speaking a language.
- The English word 'potency' and 'potential' are distant relatives of the Spanish poder, as they all share a root meaning power or capacity.
- The phrase no puedo más uses the verb poder to mean 'I can't take it anymore', describing emotional exhaustion rather than a lack of physical power.
Examples in context
- ¿Puedes ver a Tom?Can you see Tom?This sentence is useful for asking if someone is able to see a specific person with the form puedes.Tatoeba #1917714 by Shishir, translation #1886245 by CK
- ¿Qué me puedes dar?What can you give me?This sentence is useful for asking what someone is able to give with the form puedes.Tatoeba #2109847 by Shishir, translation #1886800 by CK
- ¿Te lo puedes creer?Can you believe it?This sentence is useful for asking if someone is able to believe something with the form puedes.Tatoeba #2223562 by Shishir, translation #1635807 by Spamster
- Puede usted ayudarme?Can you help me?
- Puede usted hablar más despacio?Can you speak more slowly?
- Sería usted tan amable de explicármelo?Would you kindly explain it to me?
- ¿Puedes traerme un vaso de agua?Can you bring me a glass of water?
- Podrías prestarme tu bolígrafo?Could you lend me your pen?
- 661 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
In the kitchen, Maria is asking Alejandro for help.
- María¿Puedes lavar los platos, Alejandro?Can you wash the dishes, Alejandro?
- AlejandroSí, puedo hacerlo ahora mismo.Yes, I can do it right now.
- MaríaGracias, eres muy amable.Thank you, you are very kind.
- AlejandroDe nada, María.You're welcome, Maria.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
