Spanish Phrase
Puedes comprarlo en la máquina.
Meaning
Literally, 'You can buy it in the machine.' It is used to tell someone that an item (a ticket, snack, etc.) is available for purchase from a vending or ticket machine.
When to use
Use this sentence when directing someone to a vending machine, ticket dispenser, or any automated kiosk where the item can be bought. It works in both informal and semi‑formal contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Puedescomprarloenlamáquina.
Poder (puedes)
The verb poder in present indicative, second‑person singular, expresses ability or permission: 'you can'.
Pronombre de objeto directo unido al infinitivo
When an infinitive is followed by a direct‑object pronoun, the pronoun attaches to the infinitive (comprar + lo → comprarlo).
Preposición en
The preposition en indicates location: 'in' or 'at'.
Artículo y género
The noun máquina is feminine singular, so it takes the definite article la.
🗨In Conversation
¿Dónde puedo conseguir un boleto para el tren?
Where can I get a train ticket?
Puedes comprarlo en la máquina.
You can buy it in the machine.
✕Common Mistakes
Puedes comprarlo en la maquina.
Missing accent on máquina; the accent is required for correct spelling and pronunciation.
Puedes comprar en la máquina.
The direct‑object pronoun lo is needed to specify what you can buy.
¿Puedes comprarlo en la máquina?
Use a period for a statement; a question mark changes the meaning to a question.
↔Alternatives
Puedes adquirirlo en la máquina.
You can acquire it in the machine.
Se puede comprar en la máquina.
It can be bought in the machine.
Puedes comprarlo en el expendedor.
You can buy it at the dispenser.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries, the word máquina often refers to a vending or ticket machine (máquina expendedora). In formal signage you might see 'máquina expendedora' or 'cajero automático' for cash machines. Remember to keep the accent on máquina; omitting it changes the pronunciation and looks unprofessional.