paren
“paren” means “Stop” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Stop, Halt
Also: Wait
📝 In Action
¡Paren! No crucen la calle sin mirar.
A1Stop! Don't cross the street without looking.
Señores, paren el motor inmediatamente.
A2Gentlemen, stop the engine immediately.
Paren de hacer ruido, por favor.
A1Stop making noise, please.
that they stop, that you (plural formal) stop
Also: whether they stop
📝 In Action
Necesito que ellos paren de hablar tan alto.
B1I need them to stop talking so loudly.
Es bueno que ustedes paren a descansar un rato.
B2It is good that you (all) stop to rest for a while.
Dudo que paren la construcción por la lluvia.
B2I doubt they will stop the construction because of the rain.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: paren
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'paren' as a direct command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'parar' comes from the Latin verb *parāre*, which originally meant 'to prepare' or 'to make ready.' Over time, its meaning shifted to 'to hold something steady' and eventually 'to halt' or 'to stop.'
First recorded: 13th century (as 'parar')
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'paren' formal or informal?
'Paren' is the command form for 'ustedes' (you plural). In Latin America, it is the standard way to address any group of people. In Spain, it is usually reserved for formal groups, while 'parad' is used for informal groups.
How do I say 'Don't stop' to a group of people?
You use the negative imperative, which is identical to the subjunctive form: '¡No paren!' (Do not stop!).