frena

Frena is a conjugated form of the Spanish verb frenar, meaning to slow down or stop movement. In the present indicative, frena corresponds to él/ella/usted frena, meaning “he/she slows down” or “you (formal) brake.” It also appears as the informal tú command in the affirmative imperative, meaning “brake!” When used with ustedes or ellos/ellas, different forms are used (frenan, frenen) to reflect the subject.

The verb frenar derives from the noun freno, which denotes a brake or rein used to restrain movement. The noun itself refers to a device that slows or halts motion, and it historically ties to the broader concept of restraint and control. The combination of motor or animal control with the action of braking gives the sense captured by frenar.

Usage of frena can be seen in everyday Spanish to describe slowing or stopping in various contexts, such as driving, cycling, or other activities requiring restraint. Examples include: “El conductor frena ante el obstáculo” (The driver brakes before the obstacle) and “Frena, que estás acelerando demasiado” (Brake, you’re accelerating too much). The form is also used in formal commands: “usted frene” and plural forms “ustedes frenen” when addressing more than one person.

Related terms include freno (the noun for brake or rein) and frenado (the noun for braking or the act of braking). The root is common across Iberian languages, reflecting the shared concept of restraint and speed control.