How to Say "to enable" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to enable” is “permitir” — use 'permitir' when you want to say that something makes another action or situation possible, often in a passive sense, or when you are giving permission.
permitir
per-mee-TEERpeɾmiˈtiɾ
Examples
Este nuevo software permite una comunicación más rápida.
This new software enables faster communication.
La arquitectura del edificio permite la entrada de mucha luz natural.
The building's architecture allows for the entry of a lot of natural light.
Su flexibilidad le permite adaptarse a cualquier situación.
His flexibility allows him to adapt to any situation.
Impersonal Subjects
In this sense, 'permitir' often has an impersonal subject (a thing or a situation) rather than a person: 'El diseño permite...' (The design allows...).
posibilitar
po-see-bee-lee-TARposiβiliˈtaɾ
Examples
El ahorro nos posibilitó comprar la casa.
Saving money made it possible for us to buy the house.
Esta tecnología posibilita la comunicación instantánea.
This technology enables instant communication.
Las nuevas leyes posibilitarán una mayor igualdad.
The new laws will make greater equality possible.
One word for three
In English, we usually say 'make something possible'. In Spanish, you can use this single word 'posibilitar' to express that whole idea efficiently.
Direct action
This verb acts directly on the thing being enabled. For example, 'posibilitar el viaje' (to make the trip possible).
Using it for people
Mistake: “La profesora me posibilitó estudiar.”
Correction: La profesora me permitió estudiar.
capacitar
ka-pa-see-TARkapasiˈtaɾ
Examples
La empresa va a capacitar a los nuevos empleados la próxima semana.
The company is going to train the new employees next week.
Este curso te capacita para trabajar como técnico de emergencias.
This course qualifies you to work as an emergency technician.
Debemos capacitar a las comunidades para que gestionen sus propios recursos.
We must empower communities so they can manage their own resources.
Using the Personal 'a'
When you are training a person or a specific group of people, you must put the word 'a' before them. For example: 'Capacitar a los maestros'.
The Purpose Connector 'para'
To explain what someone is being trained TO DO, use the word 'para' followed by the base form of the next verb. Example: 'Me capacitan para ayudar'.
Don't confuse with physical training
Mistake: “Voy al gimnasio para capacitarme.”
Correction: Voy al gimnasio para entrenar. 'Capacitar' is for learning skills or getting qualified, not for physical exercise.
Permitir vs. Posibilitar
Related Translations
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