mantenga
“mantenga” means “keep” in Spanish (maintain a state or condition).
keep, maintain
Also: hold, support
📝 In Action
Espero que usted mantenga la calma durante la emergencia.
B1I hope that you (formal) keep calm during the emergency.
El doctor recomienda que mantenga una dieta balanceada.
B2The doctor recommends that I/he/she/you (formal) maintain a balanced diet.
¡Mantenga la puerta cerrada en todo momento!
B1Keep the door closed at all times! (Formal command)
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mantenga
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'mantenga' as a formal command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'mantener' comes from the combination of the Latin words *manu* (hand) and *tenere* (to hold). Literally, it means 'to hold in the hand,' which evolved into the modern sense of 'to hold onto' or 'to maintain.'
First recorded: Around the 13th century in Spanish.
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'mantener' change to 'mantenga'?
'Mantener' is an irregular verb that follows the pattern of 'tener' (to have). When forming the present subjunctive (the special form used for wishes, doubts, or necessity), it adds a 'g' before the ending, just like 'tener' becomes 'tenga.'
When should I use 'mantenga' versus 'mantiene'?
Use 'mantiene' when you are stating a fact ('He maintains his car well' -> 'Él mantiene su coche bien'). Use 'mantenga' when you are expressing a wish, desire, command, or necessity ('I want him to maintain his car well' -> 'Quiero que él mantenga su coche bien').