impedir
im-peh-DEER
Quick Reference
📝 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.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'que' and the Special Verb Form
When you use 'impedir' to prevent someone else from doing something, you usually follow it with 'que' and the special verb form (the subjunctive). Example: 'Impidieron que yo entrara.' (They prevented me from entering).
The 'e' to 'i' Change
In many present tense forms, the 'e' in the middle of the verb stem changes to an 'i'. Think of it as 'i-mpide' instead of 'e-mpede'. This change also happens in the present subjunctive.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting the Stem Change
Mistake: "Yo *empedo* (Incorrect present tense)"
Correction: Yo *impido* (Correct present tense). Remember the 'e' becomes 'i' when the stress falls on that syllable.
Using the Wrong Mood
Mistake: "Impidió que ellos *salieron*."
Correction: Impidió que ellos *salieran*. (The action being prevented requires the special verb form, the subjunctive, after 'que'.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Self-Prevention
If you are preventing yourself from doing something, you use the reflexive form: 'Me impido comer dulces' (I prevent myself from eating sweets).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: impedir
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'impedir' in the present tense?
📚 More Resources
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.