Inklingo

How to Say "they provide" in Spanish

English → Spanish

dan

/dahn//dan/

verbA1formal
Use 'dan' when 'they provide' refers to the act of giving something tangible or intangible, like a gift, information, or a service, often as a direct transaction or act of generosity.
Three cartoon characters are simultaneously handing colorful wrapped presents to a fourth, happy character, illustrating the concept of 'they give.'

Examples

Mis padres me dan regalos en mi cumpleaños.

My parents give me gifts on my birthday.

Ustedes siempre dan buenos consejos.

You all always give good advice.

Los árboles dan sombra en el parque.

The trees provide shade in the park.

Who is 'dan' for?

'Dan' is the form of 'dar' (to give) used for two groups: 'ellos/ellas' (they) and 'ustedes' (you all, formal). The situation will tell you which one it is.

Forgetting 'Ustedes'

Mistake: “Thinking 'dan' only means 'they give'.”

Correction: Remember to use 'dan' when speaking formally to a group of people. For instance, a waiter might ask a table, '¿Qué les dan de beber?' (What can I get you all to drink?).

ofrecen

/oh-FREH-sehn//oˈfɾesen/

verbA1formal
Use 'ofrecen' when 'they provide' implies making something available, such as a service, a feature, or an opportunity, often in a commercial or helpful context.
Two children smiling and holding out a basket of bright red apples toward the viewer.

Examples

Ellos ofrecen ayuda a los turistas.

They offer help to the tourists.

Ustedes ofrecen los mejores precios del mercado.

You all offer the best prices on the market.

Las tiendas ofrecen descuentos hoy.

The stores are offering discounts today.

Who are we talking about?

The word 'ofrecen' is used specifically when you are talking about 'them' (ellos/ellas) or a group of people you are addressing directly ('you all' / ustedes).

The Spelling Twist

While 'ofrecen' looks regular, its family (the verb 'ofrecer') changes 'c' to 'zc' in the 'yo' form (ofrezco). However, in 'ofrecen', the 'c' stays exactly as it is.

Using it for 'we'

Mistake: “Nosotros ofrecen comida.”

Correction: Nosotros ofrecemos comida. Use 'ofrecen' only for 'them' or 'you all'.

Giving vs. Offering

Learners often confuse 'dan' (give) and 'ofrecen' (offer). Think about whether something is directly handed over ('dan') or made available for use ('ofrecen'). 'Dan' is more about the act of giving, while 'ofrecen' is about making something accessible.

Related Translations

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