permiten
“permiten” means “they allow” in Spanish (when talking about a group of people or things).
they allow, you allow
Also: they permit, they enable
📝 In Action
Los nuevos sistemas permiten trabajar desde casa.
A2The new systems allow working from home.
Mis padres me permiten ir a la fiesta.
A1My parents allow me to go to the party.
¿Ustedes permiten perros en el hotel?
A2Do you (formal plural) allow dogs in the hotel?
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: permiten
Question 1 of 2
Which subject correctly uses the verb form 'permiten'?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *permittere*, which literally meant 'to let go' or 'to send through.' This sense of 'letting something pass' evolved into the modern meaning of giving approval or authorization.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'permiten' and 'permitan'?
'Permiten' is the regular present form used for facts and certainty (Indicative mood): 'They allow it.' 'Permitan' is the special form used for wishes, doubts, or indirect commands (Subjunctive mood): 'Espero que ellos permitan...' (I hope that they allow...).
Is 'permiten' formal or informal?
'Permiten' itself is neutral. However, if the subject is 'ustedes' (You, plural), the sentence is automatically formal, while if the subject is 'ellos' or 'ellas' (They), it is neutral.