impedir
“impedir” means “to prevent” in Spanish (stopping an action or event).
to prevent, to impede
Also: to stop, to block
📝 In Action
La lluvia no impidió que saliéramos a correr.
B1The rain didn't prevent us from going out to run.
Su falta de experiencia le está impidiendo conseguir el ascenso.
B2His lack of experience is hindering him from getting the promotion.
Las nuevas normas impiden el acceso a vehículos pesados.
B2The new rules block access to heavy vehicles.
Impidieron que yo viera el partido.
B1They prevented me from seeing the game.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: impedir
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'impedir' in the present tense?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
It comes from the Latin verb *impedire*, which literally meant 'to shackle the feet' (from *in-* meaning 'in' and *pedis* meaning 'foot'). The original idea was physically tying something down or getting in the way, which is why it means 'to hinder' or 'to prevent' today.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'impedir' always require the subjunctive mood?
If 'impedir' is followed by 'que' and a different person is performing the action, yes, the special verb form (subjunctive) is almost always required because you are dealing with a wish, command, or influence over an uncertain future action. Example: 'Impido que *hagas* eso' (I prevent you from doing that).
What is the difference between 'impedir' and 'evitar'?
Both mean 'to prevent,' but 'impedir' often implies a physical barrier, obstruction, or active resistance ('to block/hinder'). 'Evitar' usually means 'to avoid' or 'to prevent' by taking cautionary steps. You 'impiden' the passage of a car, but you 'evitas' a confrontation.