Inklingo

How to Say "we may" in Spanish

English → Spanish

podemos

/poh-DEH-mohs//poˈðemos/

VerbA2General
Use 'podemos' when asking for or stating explicit permission, similar to 'may we' or 'we can' in a direct request or confirmation.
A group of children asking a teacher for permission to go outside and play.

Examples

Disculpe, ¿podemos pasar?

Excuse me, may we come in?

El profesor dijo que podemos usar los libros.

The teacher said we are allowed to use the books.

No podemos hacer ruido después de las diez.

We are not allowed to make noise after ten.

podamos

/po-DA-mos//poˈða.mos/

VerbA2General
Use 'podamos' to express hope or a desire for a future possibility, often translated as 'hopefully we can' or 'that we may'. It implies a wish for something to happen.
A high quality storybook illustration showing two joyful children holding hands and standing triumphantly on top of a tall, colorful stack of building blocks, symbolizing collective ability and success.

Examples

Ojalá podamos ir a la fiesta.

Hopefully we can go to the party.

El profesor nos dio más tiempo para que podamos terminar el proyecto.

The teacher gave us more time so that we can finish the project.

Es posible que no podamos llegar hasta mañana.

It's possible that we won't be able to arrive until tomorrow.

The 'Wishing and Hoping' Verb Form (Subjunctive)

'Podamos' is a special form of 'poder' (to be able to) used after phrases that express doubt, desire, or possibility, like 'espero que' (I hope that) or 'es posible que' (it's possible that). It signals that what you're saying isn't a sure thing.

Using 'Podemos' Instead of 'Podamos'

Mistake: “Espero que podemos ir al cine.”

Correction: Espero que **podamos** ir al cine. After a 'wishing' phrase like 'espero que', the verb needs to change to this special form. 'Podemos' is for stating facts, like 'Sabemos que podemos ir' (We know we can go).

Permission vs. Hope

Learners often confuse 'podemos' and 'podamos' by using 'podemos' when they mean to express a hopeful wish about the future. Remember, 'podemos' is for present permission or ability, while 'podamos' signals a hope for future possibility.

Related Translations

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