permíteme
per-MEE-teh-meh
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Permíteme ayudarte con esas bolsas tan pesadas.
A2Allow me to help you with those heavy bags.
Permíteme decir algo sobre ese punto.
B1Let me say something about that point. (Used to interject)
Si me permites, prefiero sentarme aquí.
B1If you allow me, I prefer to sit here. (Note: this shows the base verb structure)
💡 Grammar Points
The 'Verb + Me' Structure
This word is a combination of the informal command form of the verb 'permitir' (permite) and the object pronoun 'me' (to/for me). When you attach a pronoun like 'me' to an affirmative command, the pronoun always goes at the end.
Formal vs. Informal
Since 'permíteme' uses the 'tú' (informal) command form, it is generally used with friends or family. For a boss or someone you address formally, you should use 'Permítame' (using the 'usted' command form).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Incorrect Pronoun Placement
Mistake: "Me permite ayudarte."
Correction: Permíteme ayudarte. The pronoun 'me' must attach to the end of the affirmative command, unlike in English where 'me' comes before the verb.
⭐ Usage Tips
A Polite Interruption
Using 'Permíteme' is a very polite and common way to step into a conversation, whether you are offering help, correcting information, or changing the subject.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: permíteme
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the formal version of 'permíteme'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'permíteme' a polite way to interrupt someone?
Yes, absolutely. It's one of the most common and polite ways to interject, similar to saying 'Excuse me, may I say something?' It shows you respect the other person's time and attention.
Why is it not spelled 'permite me'?
In Spanish, when you use an affirmative command (like 'permite'), the little words that act as the object (like 'me', 'te', 'lo', 'la') are always physically attached to the end of the verb, forming a single word. This is a strict rule for affirmative commands.