Deber

The Spanish verb 'deber' translates primarily to 'to owe' or 'should/ought to' in English. It signifies a financial obligation (owing money, a debt) or a moral obligation (duty, responsibility). When used to express obligation, it often implies a sense of correctness or advisability, similar to 'should' or 'ought to.' It can also express a high probability or logical deduction (must), often used when speculating about past events. The nuances of meaning are context-dependent, varying from a concrete debt to an abstract obligation or a logical conclusion. Understanding the context is key to properly interpreting 'deber'.

Deber meaning with examples

• Juan *debe* cinco dólares a María por el almuerzo que comió ayer. (John *owes* Mary five dollars for the lunch he ate yesterday.) This demonstrates a clear financial obligation, the straightforward meaning of owing money. This is a direct financial transaction.
• Ustedes *deben* estudiar para el examen final. (You *should* study for the final exam.) This expresses a moral obligation or recommendation. Studying is the 'correct' course of action. It offers advice or guidance.
• El profesor *debe* haber terminado de corregir los exámenes. (The professor *must* have finished grading the exams.) Here, 'deber' suggests a strong probability or logical conclusion. It's a deduction based on available information.
• Ella *debe* ser una gran artista; ha dedicado años a su oficio. (She *must* be a great artist; she's dedicated years to her craft.) This example also uses 'deber' to infer based on observable information, similar to the earlier example, but now centered on quality.