Inklingo

How to Say "provides" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “provides” is “ofrece” — use 'ofrece' when a place, company, or entity is offering or presenting something tangible or intangible, like a service, a view, or a benefit..

English → Spanish

ofrece

oh-FREH-seh/oˈfɾe.θe/

Verb (Conjugated Form)B1General
Use 'ofrece' when a place, company, or entity is offering or presenting something tangible or intangible, like a service, a view, or a benefit.
A scene showing a utility pole providing electricity via power lines to a small, illuminated cottage.

Examples

Este hotel ofrece una vista espectacular del mar.

This hotel offers (provides) a spectacular view of the sea.

La nueva aplicación ofrece muchas funciones útiles.

The new application offers (features) many useful functions.

El mercado ofrece verduras frescas y productos locales.

The market provides fresh vegetables and local products.

Using 'Ofrece' for Features

When talking about products or places, 'ofrece' works like the English verb 'to feature' or 'to provide.' The subject (the product/place) is doing the action.

Confusing Offer/Provide

Mistake: “Mi casa da una vista bonita. (My house gives a nice view.)”

Correction: Mi casa ofrece una vista bonita. ('Ofrecer' is much more natural when referring to features or views.)

permite

pehr-MEE-teh/peɾˈmite/

VerbB1General
Use 'permite' when something enables or allows for a certain action, opportunity, or outcome to happen.
A small, brightly colored bird with large, powerful wings is soaring high and effortlessly in a clear blue sky, illustrating the capacity to act.

Examples

Este material permite reducir el consumo de energía.

This material enables (provides) the reduction of energy consumption.

La nueva carretera permite viajar a la costa en solo dos horas.

The new highway makes it possible to travel to the coast in only two hours.

Non-Human Subjects

In this sense, the subject of 'permite' is often a system, technology, or abstract concept (e.g., 'El software,' 'La luz,' 'La estructura') rather than a person.

Ofrece vs. Permite

Learners often confuse 'ofrece' and 'permite' by using 'ofrece' when something actually enables or makes possible an action. Remember, 'ofrece' is about giving or presenting, while 'permite' is about allowing or enabling.

Related Translations

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