pwede

Pwede is a common Filipino word meaning “can,” “may,” or “to be allowed.” It expresses possibility or permission and functions as a stative predicate in Tagalog grammar. The sense can cover both capability (I can do this) and permission (you may do this). It is widely used in everyday speech and in writing, often with the politeness marker po to show respect.

Variants and forms

The spelling pwede is the more common modern form; puwede is a regional or slightly more formal variant. Puwede and pwede are generally interchangeable. Phrases like pwede na (it’s okay now / it’s possible now) or pwede ba? (is it possible?/may I?) are frequent. The word can appear in statements or questions and commonly combines with po for politeness.

Usage notes

Pwede can function with or without a following verb, depending on the sentence structure. It frequently appears in questions to request permission or confirm possibility, as in pwede po bang humingi ng tulong? (May I ask for help?) or pwede ba kitang makita mamaya? (Can I see you later?). In affirmative form, it can mean “it is possible” or “I may,” as in pwede na akong umalis (I may leave now / I can leave now). Not all contexts allow a direct negation like hindi pwede (not allowed).

Synonyms and formality

Maari, maaaring, and posible are more formal or literary equivalents. Pwede remains the most common word in everyday Tagalog for expressing ability or permission.

See also

Maari; Maaari; Posible.