dejan
“dejan” means “they leave” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
they leave, you (plural) leave
Also: they abandon, they forget
📝 In Action
Ellos siempre dejan los platos sucios en la mesa.
A1They always leave the dirty dishes on the table.
Ustedes dejan la casa muy limpia después de la fiesta.
A2You all leave the house very clean after the party.
Mis vecinos dejan la música encendida cuando salen.
A2My neighbors leave the music on when they go out.
they let, you (plural) let
Also: they permit
📝 In Action
Los guardias no dejan pasar a nadie después de las diez.
A2The guards don't let anyone pass after ten o'clock.
Si ustedes me dejan explicar, todo tendrá sentido.
B1If you all let me explain, everything will make sense.
Ellas no dejan que sus hijos vean televisión tarde.
B1They don't allow their children to watch television late.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "dejan" in Spanish:
they abandon→they forget→they leave→they let→they permit→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: dejan
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'dejan' in the sense of 'to allow'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'dejar' comes from the Latin verb *laxare*, which meant 'to loosen,' 'to release,' or 'to relax.' This origin explains why 'dejar' covers both the idea of 'letting go' of an object (leaving it behind) and 'letting' someone do something (releasing them from restriction).
First recorded: 10th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'dejan' and 'se van'?
'Dejan' (from dejar) means 'they leave something behind' or 'they allow.' 'Se van' (from irse) means 'they leave a place' or 'they go away.' If they leave the party, you say 'Se van de la fiesta.' If they leave their coat, you say 'Dejan su abrigo.'
Is 'dejan' used often in informal speech?
Yes, 'dejan' is extremely common and is used in all registers, from casual conversation to formal writing, due to the fundamental nature of the verb 'dejar'.