Inklingo

How to Say "maintains" in Spanish

English → Spanish

mantiene

man-tee-EH-neh/manˈtje.ne/

verbA2general
Use 'mantiene' when referring to the act of keeping something in good condition or working order, such as possessions or systems.
A child gently holding a tall, colorful stack of blocks steady to maintain its balance.

Examples

Ella mantiene su coche muy limpio.

She keeps her car very clean.

El presidente mantiene su promesa de subir los salarios.

The president maintains his promise to raise salaries.

¿Cómo se mantiene la calma en situaciones de estrés?

How does one maintain calm in stressful situations?

Irregularity Pattern

The verb 'mantener' follows the same pattern as 'tener' (to have). Just remember the 'man-' prefix and conjugate it like 'tener' (e.g., 'tengo' -> 'mantengo', 'tiene' -> 'mantiene').

pretende

/pre-TEN-deh//pɾeˈtende/

verbB2formal
Use 'pretende' when someone is claiming or asserting a position, belief, or intention, often in a formal or public context.
A tiny mouse standing proudly on top of an enormous wedge of cheese, pointing outward with a boastful expression, symbolizing an assertion or claim.

Examples

El político pretende que sus reformas son las mejores para el país.

The politician claims that his reforms are the best for the country.

La empresa pretende no tener responsabilidad en el accidente.

The company alleges it has no responsibility for the accident.

Claiming Facts

When 'pretender' means 'to claim' something is true, it is usually followed by the word 'que' and then a statement about the claim.

Confusing upkeep with assertion

Learners often confuse 'mantiene' (to keep in good condition) with 'pretende' (to claim or assert). Remember that 'mantiene' is about physical or systemic care, while 'pretende' is about expressing a belief or stance.

Related Translations

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