detenerlos
“detenerlos” means “to stop them” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to stop them
Also: to delay them
📝 In Action
No podemos detenerlos ahora; tienen prisa.
A2We can't stop them now; they are in a hurry.
El muro es para detenerlos.
A1The wall is to stop them.
to arrest them
Also: to detain them
📝 In Action
La policía tiene una orden para detenerlos.
B1The police have a warrant to arrest them.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: detenerlos
Question 1 of 2
What does the ending '-los' in 'detenerlos' signify?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'detinere', which combines 'de-' (away/down) and 'tenere' (to hold). Literally, it means 'to hold back'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'detenerlos' for a group of women?
No, if the group is strictly all women, you should use 'detenerlas'. Use 'detenerlos' for all men or a mixed-gender group.
What is the difference between 'pararlos' and 'detenerlos'?
'Pararlos' is the most common way to say 'stop them' in everyday life. 'Detenerlos' is slightly more formal and is often used for physical stopping or legal arrests.