temen
“temen” means “they fear” in Spanish (when a group of people is afraid of something).
they fear, you all fear
Also: they suspect
📝 In Action
Ellos le temen a la oscuridad.
A1They are afraid of the dark.
Ustedes temen perder el partido.
A2You all fear losing the match.
Muchos ciudadanos temen que los impuestos suban.
B1Many citizens fear that taxes will go up.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: temen
Question 1 of 1
How do you say 'They fear the storm' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'timere', which simply meant to be afraid or to dread.
First recorded: 12th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'temen' mean 'you all'?
Yes! In Spain and Latin America, 'temen' is used for 'ustedes' (you all), though in Spain it is specifically for the formal 'you all'.
Is it different from 'tener miedo'?
Meaning-wise, they are the same. 'Tener miedo' is like saying 'to have fear,' while 'temen' is the direct verb 'they fear.' 'Temen' is often used in more formal or written contexts.