cuando tengo
/kwando tenɡo/from spelling rules
cuando tengo is the Spanish phrase for "when I have".
This phrase is used to describe a situation or condition that occurs when the speaker possesses something.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of cuando (when) and tengo (I have).
How does it change in a sentence?
The form tengo is the first-person singular present indicative of the verb tener. If you are referring to a future event that has not yet happened, you must use the subjunctive form cuando tenga instead of the indicative cuando tengo.
Did you know?
- Because tengo is used for feelings, a phrase like cuando tengo miedo literally means 'when I possess fear' rather than 'when I am afraid'.
- The word cuando is a distant linguistic relative of the English word 'cue'.
- The phrase tengo is used to express age, so saying cuando tengo veinte años literally means 'when I have twenty years'.
Examples in context
- Cuando tengo hambre, siempre como fruta.When I am hungry, I always eat fruit.
- Cuando tengo tiempo, leo un libro.When I have time, I read a book.
- Cuando tengo sueño, me voy a dormir.When I am sleepy, I go to sleep.
Example conversation
Maria and Javier are talking about their weekend plans.
- MaríaMe gusta ir al cine cuando tengo dinero.I like going to the cinema when I have money.
- JavierYo prefiero caminar por el parque.I prefer walking through the park.
- María¿Quieres venir conmigo el sábado, Javier?Do you want to come with me on Saturday, Javier?
- JavierSí, me encantaría ir.Yes, I would love to go.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cuando, CC BY-SA 4.0.
