How to Say "allow" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “allow” is “dejen” — use 'dejen' when giving a command to a group of people (plural 'ustedes') to permit or let someone do something.
English → Spanish
dejen
DEH-hen (like 'day-hen')ˈde.xen
VerbB1Command
Use 'dejen' when giving a command to a group of people (plural 'ustedes') to permit or let someone do something.
Examples
Dejen a los niños jugar afuera un rato más.
Let the children play outside a little longer.
El guardia insiste en que no dejen pasar a nadie sin identificación.
The guard insists that they don't allow anyone to pass without ID.
Structure with Verbs
When 'dejen' means 'allow,' it is usually followed directly by another verb in its base form (infinitive): 'Dejen [verb]...'
VerbA1Figurative
Use 'dé' (from 'dar') in specific set phrases, often meaning 'give' or 'provide' rather than 'allow' in the general sense.
Examples
Por favor, déme su pasaporte.
Please, give me your passport.
Confusing 'dejen' with 'dé'
Learners often confuse 'dejen' (plural command to allow) with 'dé' (formal command to give). Remember that 'dejen' is about permission for others, while 'dé' is typically used in phrases meaning 'give me' or 'give him/her'.
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