4.2.10

Uses of 'Tener'

Test yourself

Uses of 'Tener'

Illustrative background for PossessionIllustrative background for Possession ?? "content

Possession

  • You can use 'tener' to show that someone owns or has something in Spanish.
  • Tengo tres hermanas.
    • I have three sisters.
  • Ellos tienen un coche rojo.
    • They have a red car.
Illustrative background for AgeIllustrative background for Age ?? "content

Age

  • In Spanish, you do not say 'I am 10 years old', you say 'I have 10 years'.
  • ¿Cuántos años tienes?
    • How old are you?
  • Tengo once años.
    • I am 11 years old.
Illustrative background for Hungry or thirstyIllustrative background for Hungry or thirsty ?? "content

Hungry or thirsty

  • In Spanish, you don’t say ‘I am hungry’ or ‘I’m thirsty’.
  • In Spanish you say ‘I have hunger’ or ‘I have thirst’.
  • Flora tiene hambre.
    • Flora is hungry.
  • Tengo sed.
    • I am thirsty.
Illustrative background for ObligationIllustrative background for Obligation ?? "content

Obligation

  • You can use 'tener' and an infinitive to express obligation.
  • Tengo que estudiar mucho.
    • I have to study a lot.

Jump to other topics

1You, Family & Home

2School & Jobs

3Free Time

4Grammar

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium