Using the wrong stem for the future

The verb *poder* (to be able to) is one of a handful of verbs that changes its stem when forming the future tense. Instead of *poderá*, it uses the special, shorter stem *podr-* (poh-drr) before adding the future endings.

Irregular Future Stem

This form, *podrá*, is used only when the subject is a single person you call *él* (he), *ella* (she), or *usted* (you formal), or a single object or concept.

Who Does the Action?

In casual speech, *podrá* is often used to speculate or guess about the *present* or *near future*, similar to 'may' or 'could' in English. E.g., '¿Quién llama? Podrá ser Juan.' (Who is calling? It could be Juan.)

Future Speculation

Extremely common, used daily when discussing future possibilities, abilities, or permissions.

Learn the meaning and proper use of 'podrá,' the third-person singular future tense of the irregular Spanish verb 'poder' (to be able to). Includes translations, examples, and simple grammar tips.

podrá

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations