Inklingo

How to Say "to impede" in Spanish

English → Spanish

impedir

/im-peh-DEER//im.peˈðiɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'impedir' when you want to say that something or someone obstructs, hinders, or prevents an action or event from happening.
A bright red ball is rolling quickly but is completely blocked and stopped by a large, solid gray wall.

Examples

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'.)

arrestar

ah-rrehs-TAHR/a.resˈtaɾ/

verbC1specialized
Use 'arrestar' specifically when talking about blocking the advancement or progression of something, often in a scientific, medical, or technical context.
A large, solid gray wall successfully blocking the forceful forward movement of a stylized blue wave, illustrating the stopping of progress.

Examples

Los médicos intentaron arrestar el avance de la enfermedad.

The doctors tried to halt the advance of the disease.

El gobierno debe arrestar el deterioro del sistema educativo.

The government must check the deterioration of the educational system.

Formal Usage

This meaning is usually found in written reports, scientific papers, or very formal speeches. In everyday conversation, you would typically use 'parar' or 'detener' instead.

General vs. Specific Use

Learners often overuse 'arrestar' for general hindrances. Remember that 'impedir' is the more common and versatile word for simply stopping or preventing something. Reserve 'arrestar' for contexts where you are specifically blocking the forward movement or development of a process.

Related Translations

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