mantenerla
mahn-teh-NAIR-lah
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Tengo una promesa y voy a mantenerla.
A2I have a promise and I am going to keep it.
Es una casa grande y cuesta mucho mantenerla.
B1It is a big house and it costs a lot to maintain it.
Ella perdió su empleo y sus padres deben mantenerla.
B1She lost her job and her parents have to support her.
💡 Grammar Points
The Attached Pronoun
The 'la' at the end of 'mantenerla' acts like a shortcut for 'it' or 'her.' You attach it directly to the end of the action word when it is in its original 'to' form (the infinitive).
Placement Shift
Notice that when you conjugate the verb (like 'la mantengo'), the 'la' part jumps to the front of the word instead of staying at the end.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Choosing 'lo' vs 'la'
Mistake: "Using 'mantenerla' to refer to a book (el libro)."
Correction: You must use 'mantenerlo' for masculine words like 'libro' and 'mantenerla' only for feminine words like 'casa' or 'idea'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Supporting People
In a social context, this word often implies providing financial support. If you say you 'mantenerla,' people will assume you pay for her expenses.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: mantenerla
Question 1 of 2
If you are talking about 'la casa' (the house) and you want to say 'to keep it clean,' which word do you use?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I say 'la mantener' instead of 'mantenerla'?
No. When the verb is in its basic 'to' form (infinitive), the 'la' must be attached to the end. You only put 'la' in front when you conjugate the verb (e.g., 'la mantengo').
Does this word only mean financial support?
No, it is very versatile! It can mean keeping a secret, maintaining a building, or even keeping your cool.