The verb "impedir" means to prevent someone from doing something, to hinder, or to obstruct. It is commonly used in both oral and written contexts. The frequency of use is moderate, with particular prevalence in legal and formal texts where restrictions and prohibitions are discussed.
El nuevo reglamento impide el uso de teléfonos móviles en la sala de clase.
The new regulation prevents the use of mobile phones in the classroom.
La lluvia intensa impidió que el partido de fútbol se llevara a cabo.
The heavy rain hindered the football match from taking place.
No puedo impedir que me molesten las críticas.
I can't prevent the criticism from bothering me.
The word "impedir" is often used in various idiomatic expressions that convey the concept of hindrance or obstruction.
No hay nada que impida su felicidad.
There’s nothing that can prevent her happiness.
El miedo a fallar impide que muchas personas intenten sus sueños.
The fear of failure prevents many people from pursuing their dreams.
La desinformación puede impedir el progreso de una comunidad.
Misinformation can hinder the progress of a community.
Los prejuicios impiden que se conozcan las realidades de otras culturas.
Prejudices prevent the understanding of the realities of other cultures.
El bloqueo en las negociaciones impide un acuerdo final.
The deadlock in negotiations prevents a final agreement.
La falta de recursos puede impedir el desarrollo de proyectos importantes.
The lack of resources can hinder the development of important projects.
Los obstáculos en el camino no deben impedir el objetivo final.
Obstacles on the way should not hinder the final goal.
Él siempre encuentra una manera de impedir que el estrés lo afecte.
He always finds a way to prevent stress from affecting him.
The word "impedir" comes from the Latin "impedīre," which means "to impede" or "to obstruct." The prefix "im-" is a variant of "in-" meaning "not," while "pēdere" means "to foot," implying a sense of tripping or hindering progress.