vayan
“vayan” means “go” in Spanish (as a command or suggestion (you all formal)).
go, are going
Also: may go
📝 In Action
Espero que los invitados no se vayan tan pronto.
B1I hope the guests don't go/leave so soon.
Señores, vayan al fondo del pasillo y esperen allí.
A2Sirs/Madams, go to the end of the hall and wait there. (Formal command)
No creo que vayan a encontrar un hotel abierto a esta hora.
B1I don't think they are going to find an open hotel at this hour.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: vayan
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'vayan' to give a formal command to a group?
📚 More Resources
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Like many common Spanish verbs, *ir* (the infinitive of 'vayan') comes directly from Latin, specifically from three different verbs (*ire, vadere, esse*) that blended together over time, which is why it has such irregular conjugations.
First recorded: Old Spanish (around 10th-11th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'vayan' used instead of 'van' for commands?
Spanish uses a special verb form (the Imperative) for commands. For formal commands ('usted' and 'ustedes'), Spanish uses the same form as the Present Subjunctive. 'Van' is only for stating a fact (They go/You all go), not for ordering someone to do something.
What is the difference between 'vayan' and 'vayamos'?
Both are special verb forms, but they refer to different people. 'Vayan' is for 'they' or 'you all' (ustedes). 'Vayamos' means 'let's go' (us/nosotros).