How to Say "to block" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to block” is “impedir” — use 'impedir' when an action or event stops something from happening or prevents someone from doing something, often implying an obstacle..
impedir
/im-peh-DEER//im.peˈðiɾ/
Examples
El tráfico nos impidió llegar a tiempo.
The traffic blocked us from arriving on time.
La lluvia no impidió que saliéramos a correr.
The rain didn't prevent us from going out to run.
Su falta de experiencia le está impidiendo conseguir el ascenso.
His lack of experience is hindering him from getting the promotion.
Las nuevas normas impiden el acceso a vehículos pesados.
The new rules block access to heavy vehicles.
Using 'que' and the Special Verb Form
When you use 'impedir' to prevent someone else from doing something, you usually follow it with 'que' and the special verb form (the subjunctive). Example: 'Impidieron que yo entrara.' (They prevented me from entering).
The 'e' to 'i' Change
In many present tense forms, the 'e' in the middle of the verb stem changes to an 'i'. Think of it as 'i-mpide' instead of 'e-mpede'. This change also happens in the present subjunctive.
Forgetting the Stem Change
Mistake: “Yo *empedo* (Incorrect present tense)”
Correction: Yo *impido* (Correct present tense). Remember the 'e' becomes 'i' when the stress falls on that syllable.
Using the Wrong Mood
Mistake: “Impidió que ellos *salieron*.”
Correction: Impidió que ellos *salieran*. (The action being prevented requires the special verb form, the subjunctive, after 'que'.)
parar
/pa-RAR//paˈɾaɾ/
Examples
El defensa paró al delantero rival para que no marcara.
The defender blocked the rival forward so he wouldn't score.
El portero paró el penalti y salvó al equipo.
The goalkeeper saved the penalty and saved the team.
¡Qué buena parada! Nadie esperaba que parara ese balón.
What a great save! Nobody expected him to save that ball.
Impedir vs. Parar
Related Translations
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