puedo
“puedo” means “I can” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
I can
Also: I am able to
📝 In Action
Puedo hablar español un poco.
A1I can speak a little Spanish.
No puedo levantar eso, es muy pesado.
A1I can't lift that, it's too heavy.
Puedo correr cinco kilómetros sin problema.
A2I can run five kilometers without a problem.
May I?
Also: Can I?
📝 In Action
¿Puedo ir al baño, por favor?
A1May I go to the bathroom, please?
¿Puedo hacerte una pregunta?
A1Can I ask you a question?
Si termino mi trabajo, ¿puedo salir temprano?
A2If I finish my work, can I leave early?
Can I...?
Also: Is it possible for me to...?
📝 In Action
¿Puedo ayudarte con las bolsas?
A2Can I help you with the bags?
Puedo llevarte al aeropuerto si quieres.
B1I can take you to the airport if you want.
¿En qué puedo servirle?
A2How can I help you? (formal)
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: puedo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'puedo' to mean asking for permission?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from a Vulgar Latin word, '*potēre*', which itself is a blend of the classical Latin words 'posse' (to be able) and 'potens' (powerful). It's always been about ability and power.
First recorded: Around the 10th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'puedo' and 'sé'?
'Puedo' is about ability or permission ('I can'), while 'sé' (from the verb 'saber') is about knowing facts or skills ('I know'). For example, 'Puedo levantar esto' (I can lift this) vs. 'Sé nadar' (I know how to swim).
Is 'puedo' ever used for 'you'?
No, 'puedo' always means 'I can'. For 'you can', you would use 'puedes' (for a friend, 'tú') or 'puede' (more formally, 'usted').