How to Say "they kill" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “they kill” is “matan” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Dicen que las leyes nuevas matan la economía.
They say the new laws are killing the economy.
Los leones matan solo cuando tienen hambre.
Lions only kill when they are hungry.
Ustedes matan el tiempo esperando el autobús.
You all are killing time waiting for the bus.
The 'Present' Tense
The form 'matan' describes actions happening now, routine actions, or facts. It is used when the subjects are 'ellos' (they, masculine/mixed), 'ellas' (they, feminine), or 'ustedes' (you all/y'all, formal).
Personal 'a'
When 'matan' acts upon a person or pet, you must use the preposition 'a' before the victim: 'Matan a los prisioneros.' (They kill the prisoners).
Confusing Indicative and Subjunctive
Mistake: “Using 'maten' when stating a fact.”
Correction: Use 'matan' for facts ('Ellos matan') and 'maten' only for wishes, doubts, or indirect commands ('Quiero que ellos maten...').
Related Translations
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