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How to Say "you quit" in Spanish

English → Spanish

dejas

DEH-hahs/ˈdexas/

verbB1general
Use 'dejas' when referring to the present or future intention of stopping a habit or activity, often as a direct question about a current or upcoming action.
A stylized hand carefully setting down a paintbrush onto a wooden palette covered with bright paint, indicating the end of painting.

Examples

¿Cuándo dejas de fumar?

When are you going to quit smoking?

Si no dejas esa dieta, te vas a enfermar.

If you don't quit that diet, you are going to get sick.

'Dejar' to Mean 'Stop'

To express stopping an activity, 'dejar' nearly always requires the little word 'de' right before the action verb: 'Dejas de trabajar' (You stop working).

Omitting 'de'

Mistake: “Decir 'Dejas trabajar' para 'You stop working.'”

Correction: The correct phrase is 'Dejas de trabajar.' The 'de' is essential when 'dejar' means 'to quit doing something.'

dejaras

deh-HAH-rahs/deˈxaɾas/

verbB2general
Use 'dejaras' (imperfect subjunctive) in hypothetical or conditional sentences, often implying 'if you were to quit' or 'if you would quit' something.
A cheerful figure setting down a paintbrush and palette onto a table next to an easel, indicating they have stopped the activity.

Examples

Si dejaras de fumar, te sentirías mucho mejor.

If you stopped smoking, you would feel much better.

Era importante que dejaras de preocuparte tanto.

It was important that you stop worrying so much.

The 'De' Preposition

When 'dejar' means 'to stop' or 'to quit,' it must always be followed by the preposition 'de' before the next verb: 'dejar de [infinitive]'.

Missing the 'de'

Mistake: “Using 'Si dejaras estudiar' (If you quit study).”

Correction: The correct structure is 'Si dejaras de estudiar' (If you quit studying). The 'de' is mandatory here.

Subjunctive vs. Indicative for 'Quit'

The most common mistake is using the indicative 'dejas' in hypothetical or conditional sentences where the subjunctive 'dejaras' is required. Remember, 'dejaras' is for 'if you would quit,' while 'dejas' is for 'when you quit' (now or soon).

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