tenir — meaning in English: to have

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for to have

amb

estratègia

tenir

peu

familia

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Catalan for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'tenir' in everyday conversations, such as talking about possessions, feelings, or obligations. For example, you might hear someone say, 'Tinc una casa' (I have a house) or 'Tinc gana' (I am hungry) when discussing their needs or circumstances.

Synonyms & nuances

'Tenir' is often compared to the verb 'possess', but while 'possess' is more formal and implies ownership, 'tenir' has a broader application, including states of being or feelings. Use 'tenir' when you want to convey a personal connection to the subject.

Culture

The word 'tenir' comes from the Latin 'tenere', meaning 'to hold'. In Catalan culture, the concept of possession is closely tied to identity, which is why 'tenir' frequently appears in expressions of family and community ties. Interestingly, 'tenir' is also used in various idiomatic expressions, reflecting its importance in daily life.

FAQ

Q.What is the conjugation of 'tenir' in the present tense?

'Tenir' is conjugated as 'tinc' (I have), 'tens' (you have), 'tenim' (we have), 'teniu' (you all have), and 'tenen' (they have) in the present tense. It's important to use the correct form based on the subject.

Q.Can 'tenir' be used with emotions?

Yes, 'tenir' is often used to express emotions or states, such as 'tenir por' (to be afraid) or 'tenir ganes de' (to feel like). This makes it versatile for describing both physical possessions and emotional states.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'tenir'?

A common mistake is to confuse 'tenir' with the verb 'haver', which also means 'to have' but is typically used in perfect tenses. Remember, use 'tenir' for possession and states, and 'haver' for auxiliary purposes.

Learn catalan with Maspeak →

Catalan Vocabulary