Spanish Phrase
¿Puedo llevar a un amigo?
Meaning
This question asks for permission to bring a friend along. It can be used in many everyday situations—at a restaurant, a concert, a class, or any event where the speaker is not sure if an extra person is allowed.
When to use
Use this phrase when you need to confirm that it’s okay to have a companion with you, especially in formal or semi‑formal settings where asking politely is expected.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Puedollevaraunamigo?
Poder + infinitivo
The verb *poder* (can) is conjugated in the present and followed by an infinitive to ask for permission or ability.
Personal *a*
When the direct object is a specific person, Spanish uses the preposition *a* before the noun (a un amigo).
Indefinite article *un*
*Un* is the masculine singular indefinite article, used here because *amigo* is masculine and not previously identified.
🗨In Conversation
¿Puedo llevar a un amigo?
Can I bring a friend?
Sí, claro. No hay problema.
Yes, of course. No problem.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Puedo llevar con un amigo?
The preposition *con* is not used with *llevar* when the object is a person; you need the personal *a*.
¿Puedo llevar a amigo?
You must keep the indefinite article *un* unless the friend has already been mentioned.
¿Puedo traer a un amigo?
In some contexts *traer* sounds more natural, but *llevar* is not wrong; avoid mixing the two in the same sentence.
↔Alternatives
¿Me dejas traer a un amigo?
Will you let me bring a friend?
¿Está bien si llevo a un amigo?
Is it okay if I bring a friend?
¿Puedo invitar a un amigo?
Can I invite a friend?
Cultural Tip
In most Spanish‑speaking countries, asking for permission with *¿Puedo…?* is considered courteous. Note the subtle difference between *llevar* (to take away from the speaker’s point of view) and *traer* (to bring toward the speaker). If you’re speaking to the host, *traer* may feel more natural, but *llevar* is perfectly acceptable when you’re the one moving away from the location.