pudimos
“pudimos” means “we were able to” in Spanish (successful achievement).
we were able to, we managed to
Also: we succeeded in, we couldn't
📝 In Action
Después de tres horas, finalmente pudimos abrir la caja.
A2After three hours, we finally managed to open the box.
No pudimos comprar entradas porque se agotaron.
A2We weren't able to buy tickets because they sold out.
Si no fuera por tu ayuda, no lo pudimos haber hecho.
B1If it weren't for your help, we couldn't have done it.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "pudimos" in Spanish:
we couldn't→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pudimos
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'pudimos' to mean 'We successfully finished the race'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *potere* (to be powerful, to be able). The irregular 'pud-' stem in the past tense is a very old change in the language.
First recorded: Around the 10th century (as a form of *poder* in Old Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
If 'pudimos' means 'we were able to,' how do I say 'we could see the mountain' (describing a general scene)?
You should use the imperfect tense: 'Podíamos ver la montaña.' Use 'podíamos' when describing an ongoing past state or ability, and 'pudimos' when focusing on a single successful event.
Is 'pudimos' always used for achievements?
Yes, it signals that an attempt was made and either succeeded ('Pudimos...') or failed ('No pudimos...'). If you simply want to talk about having the capacity without trying, use 'podíamos'.