dicen
“dicen” means “they say” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
they say, they tell
Also: you all say, you all tell
📝 In Action
Mis amigos dicen que la película es buena.
A1My friends say that the movie is good.
Ellos siempre dicen la verdad.
A2They always tell the truth.
Señores, ¿qué dicen ustedes sobre el plan?
B1Gentlemen, what do you all say about the plan?
they say
Also: it is said, people say, word is
📝 In Action
Dicen que va a llover mañana.
A2They say it's going to rain tomorrow.
En Italia, dicen que no se debe beber capuchino después del mediodía.
B1In Italy, they say you shouldn't drink cappuccino after noon.
Dicen que la risa es la mejor medicina.
B1They say that laughter is the best medicine.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: dicen
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'dicen' to talk about a general belief, not a specific group of people?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
'Dicen' comes from the infinitive verb 'decir', which traces back to the Latin word 'dīcere'. This Latin word meant 'to say', 'to speak', or 'to state'. It's a foundational word for communication that has survived for centuries.
First recorded: 10th century (as 'decir')
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'dicen' and 'se dice'?
They are very similar for talking about general beliefs! Both can mean 'it is said' or 'people say'. 'Dicen' feels a bit more conversational, while 'se dice' can sound slightly more formal or like a statement of fact. For everyday chat, 'dicen' is perfect.
How do I know if 'dicen' means 'they say' or 'you all say'?
It all comes down to context. If you're in a group and someone asks you all a question directly, your answer using 'dicen' will be understood as 'you all say'. If you're talking *about* another group of people (e.g., your coworkers), then 'dicen' means 'they say'. The conversation makes it clear.