deberían
“deberían” means “should” in Spanish (recommendation or obligation for them/you all).
should, ought to
Also: must be
📝 In Action
Ellos deberían llegar a tiempo para la reunión.
A2They should arrive on time for the meeting.
Ustedes deberían probar este plato; es delicioso.
B1You all ought to try this dish; it's delicious.
¿No deberían estar estudiando en lugar de jugar?
A2Shouldn't they be studying instead of playing?
Por la hora, ya deberían haber cerrado la tienda.
B2Given the time, the store must have already closed.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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Words that translate to "deberían" in Spanish:
must be→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: deberían
Question 1 of 2
Which English statement correctly translates 'Ustedes deberían venir con nosotros'?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *debere*, meaning 'to owe,' which originally came from the combination of *de-* (from) and *habere* (to have). Over time, the sense of 'owing money' expanded into 'owing an action' or 'being obliged to do something.'
First recorded: 13th century (in its current form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between *deben* and *deberían*?
*Deben* (present tense) means 'They must' or 'They have to' and expresses a strong obligation or certainty. *Deberían* (conditional tense) means 'They should' and expresses advice, a recommendation, or a softer obligation.
Does *deberían* always mean 'should'?
Not always. When used to talk about events or facts, *deberían* can mean 'they probably are' or 'they must be,' expressing conjecture or a strong guess based on evidence.