ten
“ten” means “have” in Spanish (as a command, e.g., 'have this').
have, take
Also: here, here you go
📝 In Action
Ten, se te cayó la cartera.
A1Here, you dropped your wallet.
Ten cuidado al cruzar la calle.
A2Be careful when crossing the street.
Ten paciencia, por favor. Ya casi termino.
A2Have patience, please. I'm almost done.
Ten en cuenta que la tienda cierra a las ocho.
B1Keep in mind that the store closes at eight.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ten
Question 1 of 2
You are handing your friend a book they asked for. What is the most natural thing to say?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
'Ten' comes directly from the Latin verb 'tenēre,' which meant 'to hold, to have, to keep.' The form 'ten' is the singular imperative in Latin, 'tenē,' which was shortened over time in Spanish.
First recorded: Evolved from Vulgar Latin, present in the earliest forms of 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
What's the difference between 'ten' and 'toma'?
They are very similar and often interchangeable when handing something to someone. 'Ten' comes from 'tener' (to have), so it's like saying 'have this'. 'Toma' comes from 'tomar' (to take), so it's like saying 'take this'. Both are very common and informal.
Can I use 'ten' with my teacher?
It's better not to. 'Ten' is informal, for friends and family. With a teacher, you should use the formal command 'tenga' to show respect. For example, 'Tenga, aquí está mi tarea' (Here is my homework).