Inklingo

How to Say "they open" in Spanish

English → Spanish

abren

/AH-bren//ˈaβɾen/

verbA1
Use 'abren' when stating a fact about what multiple people or things habitually or currently do, like 'they open the store every day'.
Two children together pushing open a set of large, heavy wooden double doors leading to a bright, sunlit garden.

Examples

Ellos abren las ventanas por la mañana.

They open the windows in the morning.

¿A qué hora abren las tiendas hoy?

What time do the stores open today?

Ustedes abren el regalo juntos.

You all open the gift together.

Who is doing the action?

Use 'abren' when the people doing the opening are 'they' (ellos/ellas) or 'you all' (ustedes).

One form for two groups

In Spanish, the form for 'they' and the formal 'you all' is exactly the same.

Mixing up 'You' forms

Mistake: “Using 'abren' for a single person (usted).”

Correction: Use 'abre' for one person (usted) and 'abren' for a group of people (ustedes).

abran

AH-brahn/ˈaβɾan/

Verb (Conjugated Form)A1
Use 'abran' when expressing a command, a request, a desire, or uncertainty directed at a group, as in 'Please, they open the door' (meaning 'May they open / Let them open the door').
A pair of hands pushing open a rustic wooden door, revealing a bright, sunny interior beyond.

Examples

Por favor, abran la puerta para que entre aire fresco.

Please, open the door so fresh air can come in.

Necesito que ustedes abran el paquete ahora mismo.

I need you (plural, formal) to open the package right now.

Ojalá que los bancos no abran tarde mañana.

Hopefully, the banks don't open late tomorrow.

Two Main Uses of 'Abran'

'Abran' is used either as a command for a group of people (ustedes) or to talk about what 'they' (ellos/ellas) or 'you' (ustedes) do when expressing wishes, doubts, or requests (the special form known as the Present Subjunctive).

Formal Group Command

When giving a direct order to a group of people you address formally, you use 'Abran' (e.g., 'Abran las ventanas' — Open the windows).

Confusing Command Forms

Mistake: “Using 'abren' for a command (e.g., 'Abren el libro').”

Correction: For a command to a group, you must use the special command form 'abran' (e.g., 'Abran el libro'). 'Abren' is only used to state a fact: 'They open the book.'

Indicative vs. Subjunctive Mood

The most common mistake is confusing the factual statement ('abren') with a request or command ('abran'). Remember that 'abren' is used for what is happening or is true, while 'abran' is used for desires, commands, or uncertain situations.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.