Spanish Word · Beginner
tener
to contain
Pronunciation: /teˈneɾ/
Meaning
to contain; to hold (e.g. to "hold the power to", "hold the key", "hold a clue", "hold the truth", "have a hold on", "hold in store", "hold all the cards", "hold in high regard", etc.)
Example
Ella tiene seis hermanos.
She has six brothers.
Practice tips
- Practice tener out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this Spanish word is for beginner-level learners.