deténgase
“deténgase” means “Stop” in Spanish (Formal command, often used for vehicles or movement).
Stop, HaltAlso: Pull over
📝 In Action
¡Deténgase! No puede cruzar la línea amarilla.
A2Stop! You cannot cross the yellow line.
Por favor, deténgase un momento y escuche mi explicación.
B1Please, stop for a moment and listen to my explanation.
El oficial le gritó: '¡Deténgase inmediatamente o abro fuego!'
B2The officer yelled at him: 'Stop immediately or I'll open fire!'
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "deténgase" in Spanish:
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: deténgase
Question 1 of 2
Which of these situations requires the use of the formal command 'deténgase'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
Comes from the Latin verb *detinere*, formed by the prefix *de-* (meaning 'away' or 'down') and *tenere* (meaning 'to hold'). The original sense was 'to hold back' or 'keep away.'
First recorded: 13th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between '¡Detente!' and '¡Deténgase!'?
They both mean 'Stop!' but they are used for different people. '¡Detente!' is the informal command you use with friends, family, or children (tú). '¡Deténgase!' is the formal command you use with strangers, authorities, or in official settings (Usted).
Why does the word have 'se' at the end?
The 'se' tells us that the person is stopping *themselves*. The verb 'detenerse' is reflexive, meaning the subject and the object are the same. In positive commands, this little word is always attached to the end of the verb.