temas
“temas” means “topics” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
topics, themes
Also: issues, subjects
📝 In Action
Necesitamos discutir los temas más importantes de la agenda.
A2We need to discuss the most important topics on the agenda.
El libro aborda temas complejos como la migración y la identidad.
B1The book addresses complex themes like migration and identity.
Hay muchos temas que me interesan en esa conferencia.
A1There are many subjects that interest me at that conference.
(you) fear, (that you) fear
Also: don't fear
📝 In Action
Si no hay peligro, ¿por qué temas tanto?
B1If there is no danger, why do you fear so much?
Dudo que temas la verdad, pero sé valiente.
B2I doubt that you fear the truth, but be brave.
¡No temas el futuro! Es incierto para todos.
B1Don't fear the future! It is uncertain for everyone.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: temas
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'temas' as a verb meaning 'to fear'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The noun 'temas' comes from the Greek *thema*, meaning 'that which is laid down' or 'subject'. The verb form 'temas' comes from the Latin verb *timēre*, meaning 'to be afraid'. They sound the same but have completely different ancient roots!
First recorded: Both roots are ancient, entering Spanish through Latin (verb) and Greek/Latin (noun) during the medieval period.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Why does 'tema' (singular) end in -a but is masculine?
This is because 'tema' comes directly from Greek words ending in -ma, which Spanish usually treats as masculine. Other common examples are 'el problema' and 'el sistema'.
How can I tell if 'temas' is a noun or a verb in a sentence?
If 'temas' is preceded by an article (like 'los') or an adjective, it's the noun (topics). If it follows a subject pronoun (like 'tú' or implied 'tú') and is followed by an object, it's the verb 'temer' (you fear).