mantenlo
mahn-TEN-loh
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Mantenlo en un lugar fresco y seco.
A2Keep it in a cool, dry place.
Si el secreto es importante, mantenlo.
B1If the secret is important, keep it.
Mantenlo así por cinco segundos.
A2Hold it like that for five seconds.
💡 Grammar Points
Sticking Words Together
This word is actually two parts: 'mantén' (the command for 'you keep') and 'lo' (the word for 'it'). In Spanish, when you tell someone to do something, the 'it' or 'him' sticks to the end of the action word.
Why the accent disappeared
The base command 'mantén' has an accent mark, but when we add 'lo' to make 'mantenlo', the accent is removed because the natural stress of the word now lands on the correct spot without needing a mark.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't split them up
Mistake: "Lo mantén."
Correction: Mantenlo.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use it for habits
Use 'mantenlo' when you want someone to continue a good habit you just discussed, like 'mantenlo así' (keep it up / keep it like that).
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: mantenlo
Question 1 of 1
How would you say 'Keep it clean' to a friend?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'mantenlo' one word or two?
It is written as one single word in Spanish, even though it combines the action (keep) and the object (it).
When do I use 'mantenlo' instead of 'manténgalo'?
Use 'mantenlo' with friends, family, or people your own age. Use 'manténgalo' if you want to be formal or polite with a stranger or boss.