tener que
Lemma Details
Translation: to have to; must; to need to; to be obliged to
Part of Speech: verbal phrase
Etymology: This verbal phrase combines the verb 'tener' (to have) with the conjunction 'que' (that). 'Tener' comes from Latin 'tenere' meaning 'to hold, possess', which is related to English words like 'tenant', 'tenure', and 'tenable'. The construction evolved to express obligation or necessity, similar to how English uses 'have to'.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'tener' as 'to hold' and 'que' as 'that' - you're 'holding that' responsibility or obligation.
- Remember it as similar to English 'have to' - both express obligation using a verb for possession.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This is one of the most common ways to express obligation in Spanish. It's slightly less forceful than 'deber' (must/should) and is used in everyday conversation across all Spanish-speaking countries.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'tener que' expresses obligation based on circumstances or necessity, 'deber' implies moral obligation, duty, or advice.
This word:
Tengo que ir al médico porque estoy enfermo.
I have to go to the doctor because I'm sick.
Confused word:
Debo ir al médico para mi chequeo anual.
I should go to the doctor for my annual checkup.
Notes: 'Tener que' is generally more common in everyday speech and slightly less formal than 'deber'.
Mnemonic: 'Tener que' is for practical necessity (like English 'have to'); 'deber' is for moral obligation (like English 'should').
Explanation: 'Tener que' specifies who has the obligation, while 'hay que' is impersonal (one must, it is necessary to).
Confused word:
Hay que limpiar la casa.
One must clean the house./It's necessary to clean the house.
Notes: 'Hay que' is always in the third person singular, while 'tener que' conjugates according to the subject.
Mnemonic: If you can specify WHO has to do something, use 'tener que'; if it's a general necessity, use 'hay que'.