¡Tú puedes!
The Spanish phrase for "you can do it" is ¡Tú puedes!
This expression is used to encourage someone and tell them they are capable of achieving a goal.
Which one should you use?
While ¡Tú puedes! focuses on the person's capability, the phrase Tú puedes hacerlo specifically includes the verb "to do it".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In regions that use voseo, such as Argentina or Uruguay, the form ¡Vos podés! is used instead of ¡Tú puedes!
Did you know?
- While ¡Tú puedes! is a common way to say 'you can do it', many Spanish speakers also use the phrase ¡Dale! to mean 'go for it' or 'you can do it' in a more rhythmic, energetic way.
- The word tú is a direct linguistic sibling to the archaic English word 'thou', as both descend from the same ancient Proto-Indo-European root.
- The word poder can also mean 'power' or 'authority' as a noun. In a legal context, a poder is a power of attorney.
Examples in context
- Estoy seguro de que usted puede hacerlo.I am confident that you can do it.
- ¡Ánimo, tú puedes hacerlo!Cheer up, you can do it!
- No te rindas, ¡tú puedes!Don't give up, you can do it!
Example conversation
María is nervous before a big presentation at work.
- AlejandroEstás muy nerviosa, ¿verdad?You are very nervous, right?
- MaríaSí, tengo mucho miedo de hablar en público.Yes, I am very afraid of public speaking.
- AlejandroNo te preocupes, ¡tú puedes!Don't worry, you can do it!
- MaríaGracias, Alejandro, lo voy a intentar.Thanks, Alejandro, I will try.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tú, CC BY-SA 4.0.
