Spanish Phrase
Normalmente no puedes dejar de pagar el alquiler.
Meaning
This phrase means that under typical circumstances, you are legally or contractually obligated to continue paying rent. It emphasizes the continuous nature of the payment obligation, implying that ceasing to pay is generally not an option without consequences.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing financial responsibilities, legal obligations related to housing, or when explaining the general rule about rent payments. It's suitable in conversations about tenant rights, landlord expectations, or financial planning.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Normalmentenopuedesdejar depagarel alquiler
Normalmente
This adverb means 'normally' or 'usually'. It indicates that what follows is the general rule or common practice.
No puedes
'No puedes' means 'you cannot' (informal singular). It's the negative form of 'poder' (to be able to), conjugated for 'tú'.
Dejar de + infinitive
This is a common phrasal verb meaning 'to stop doing something'. The verb 'dejar' (to leave/let) is followed by 'de' and then an infinitive verb.
Pagar
This is the infinitive verb 'to pay'. It remains in the infinitive form because it follows the phrasal verb 'dejar de'.
El alquiler
'El alquiler' means 'the rent'. It's a masculine noun. In some regions, 'la renta' is also used, but 'el alquiler' is more widespread.
🗨In Conversation
Estoy pensando en dejar de pagar el alquiler por un mes para ahorrar.
I'm thinking of stopping paying rent for a month to save money.
Normalmente no puedes dejar de pagar el alquiler, eso te traerá problemas.
Normally you cannot stop paying the rent, that will bring you problems.
✕Common Mistakes
Normalmente no puedes parar de pagar el alquiler.
While 'parar' means 'to stop', 'dejar de' is the correct phrasal verb for 'to stop doing something' in Spanish.
Normalmente no puedes dejar de pagar la renta.
While 'renta' is understood in some regions, 'alquiler' is the more common and universally accepted term for 'rent' in Spain and many Latin American countries.
↔Alternatives
Tienes que pagar el alquiler.
You have to pay the rent.
Es obligatorio pagar el alquiler.
It is obligatory to pay the rent.
No se puede dejar de pagar el alquiler.
One cannot stop paying the rent.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, the concept of 'alquiler' (rent) is a significant financial commitment, and defaulting on payments can lead to serious legal repercussions, including eviction. Landlord-tenant laws vary by country, but the general expectation is that rent is paid consistently. This phrase reflects a universal understanding of this obligation.