podemos
“podemos” means “we can” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
we can
Also: we are able to
📝 In Action
Nosotros podemos levantar la mesa.
A1We can lift the table.
¡Claro que podemos terminar el proyecto a tiempo!
A2Of course we can finish the project on time!
Podemos ver el mar desde nuestra ventana.
A1We can see the sea from our window.
we may
Also: we are allowed to
📝 In Action
Disculpe, ¿podemos pasar?
A2Excuse me, may we come in?
El profesor dijo que podemos usar los libros.
A2The teacher said we are allowed to use the books.
No podemos hacer ruido después de las diez.
B1We are not allowed to make noise after ten.
shall we
Also: we could
📝 In Action
¿Podemos ir al parque más tarde?
A2Shall we go to the park later?
Si no llueve, podemos comer afuera.
B1If it doesn't rain, we could eat outside.
Podemos ayudarte con la mudanza si necesitas.
A2We can help you with the move if you need.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: podemos
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'podemos' to ask for permission?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb 'posse', which meant 'to be able'. 'Podemos' is the direct descendant of the Latin form 'potēmus', which also meant 'we are able'.
First recorded: Evolved from Vulgar Latin into Old Spanish around the 10th century.
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'podemos' and 'sabemos'?
Think of it this way: 'podemos' is about ABILITY or PERMISSION ('we can'), while 'sabemos' is about KNOWLEDGE or SKILL ('we know how'). You 'sabemos nadar' (know how to swim) because you learned the skill. On a sunny day, you 'podemos nadar' (can swim) because you have the ability and opportunity.
Is 'podemos' only for the present?
Yes, 'podemos' is the form for 'we' in the present tense (both for statements and for a special 'wishing' form called the subjunctive). For the past, you would say 'pudimos' (we could/were able to) or 'podíamos' (we used to be able to). For the future, it's 'podremos' (we will be able to).