pueden
/pweden/from spelling rules
pueden is the Spanish word for "they can" or "you all can".
What does it mean word for word?
pueden is a conjugated form of the infinitive poder, which means to be able to or to have permission to.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, in informal settings when addressing a group of friends, podéis is commonly used instead.
How does it change in a sentence?
pueden is the third-person plural present indicative form of the verb poder. It translates to "they can" or "you all can".
How do you pronounce it?
/pweden/
Did you know?
- The root of pueden is poder, which is a cognate of the English word 'potency'. Both come from the Latin 'potere', meaning to be able.
- In some Latin American countries, pueden is used in the phrase no pueden más to describe someone who is physically or emotionally exhausted, rather than just lacking ability.
- In legal contexts, a 'power of attorney' is called a poder. This uses the same root as pueden to signify the legal ability to act for another.
Examples in context
- Ellos pueden resolver cualquier problema.They can solve any problem.
- Ustedes pueden venir a la reunión.You all can come to the meeting.
- ¿Pueden ustedes entregarme el informe?Can you all hand me the report?
- Mis amigos pueden venir a mi fiesta.My friends can come to my party.
- ¿Pueden ayudarme con esta tarea, chicos?Can you all help me with this homework, guys?
- Ellos pueden venir hoy.They can come today.
- ¿Pueden ayudar con la cena?Can you all help with dinner?
- Mis padres pueden viajar pronto.My parents can travel soon.
Example conversation
Mateo and Elena are discussing their friends' plans for the weekend.
- Mateo¿Pueden ellos venir a la fiesta?Can they come to the party?
- ElenaSí, ellos pueden venir a las ocho.Yes, they can come at eight.
- MateoQué bien, Elena.That's great, Elena.
- ElenaSerá una fiesta muy divertida.It will be a very fun party.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
