Using 'Tienes' Instead of 'Tengas'

'Tengas' is a special form of 'tener' (to have) used after words that express wishes, doubts, emotions, or recommendations. Think of it as the 'not-a-fact-yet' form. For example, 'Espero que tengas...' (I hope that you have...).

The 'Wishing and Doubting' Verb Form

When talking about a future action or event that hasn't happened yet, use 'tengas' after 'cuando' (when). Example: 'Llámame cuando tengas tiempo' (Call me when you have time).

Use with 'Cuando' for the Future

Extremely common. This is a go-to form for expressing wishes, doubts, or giving advice to 'tú' (you, informal).

Using the Wrong Command Form

To tell a friend ('tú') NOT to do something, you use 'no' plus this special verb form. For 'tener', it's 'no tengas'. Notice it's the same form used for wishes and doubts!

Making Negative Commands for 'Tú'

Very common. This is how you tell a friend ('tú') NOT to do or have something.

Learn the meaning of 'tengas' in Spanish. See examples for its use in wishes ('espero que tengas') and negative commands ('no tengas'), and view the full conjugation of 'tener'.

tengas

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations