The verb tener (conjugation) means "to have". It is irregular in the present tense. The ending er changes to go in the (yo) form (first person singular). Also, e changes to ie in the tú, Ud., and Uds. forms of the verb.

Let's look at some uses of the verb tener:

- to express age

Tengo veintisiete años.
I am 27 years old

- to indicate possession

Yo tengo dos perros.
I have two dogs.

- to indicate obligation

Yo tengo que aprender las palabras.
I have to learn the words.

- to express sensation

Yo tengo dolor de cuello.
I have a pain in my neck.

- to express a desire to do something

Tengo ganas de dormir.
I feel like sleeping.

[ view complete lesson ]