tengo una pregunta
/ˌtenɡo ˌuna pɾeˈɡunta/
The English phrase "I got a question" is translated into Spanish as tengo una pregunta.
This phrase is used to indicate that the speaker wants to ask for information.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb tengo (I have) and the noun phrase una pregunta (a question).
Which one should you use?
Use tengo una pregunta when making a direct request for information. In contrast, use tengo una duda if you are expressing uncertainty or a lack of clarity about something that has already been discussed.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb tengo is the first-person singular present indicative of tener (to have).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌtenɡo ˌuna pɾeˈɡunta/
Did you know?
- In a group setting, instead of saying tengo una pregunta, a Spanish speaker might simply raise their hand and say perdón or disculpe to signal they have a question without needing to state it explicitly.
- In some regions, speakers might say tengo una consulta instead of tengo una pregunta when speaking to a professional, such as a doctor or lawyer, to imply a formal consultation.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, if you say tengo una duda in a classroom, the teacher understands you are asking a question to clarify a point rather than expressing a philosophical doubt.
Examples in context
- Buenos días, profesor. Tengo una pregunta sobre la tarea de ayer.Good morning, teacher. I have a question about yesterday's homework.
- Disculpe, señor. ¿Podría hacerle una pregunta acerca de la reunión de mañana?Excuse me, sir. Could I ask you a question about tomorrow's meeting?
- Hola, María. Tengo una duda sobre el plan para mañana.Hi, María. I have a question about the plan for tomorrow.
- Oye, tengo una pregunta sobre el nuevo videojuego que mencionaste.Hey, I've got a question about the new video game you mentioned.
- ¡Hola, Juan! ¿Puedo preguntarte algo sobre el concierto de esta noche?Hi, Juan! Can I ask you something about tonight's concert?
- Tengo una pregunta sobre el examen.I have a question about the exam.
- Tengo una pregunta sobre la tarea.I have a question about the homework.
- Perdone, tengo una pregunta rápida.Excuse me, I have a quick question.
- Tengo una pregunta para el profesor.I have a question for the teacher.
Example conversation
Daniel is asking María for help with a work project.
- DanielMaría, tengo una pregunta sobre el informe.María, I have a question about the report.
- MaríaClaro, dime qué necesitas.Sure, tell me what you need.
- Daniel¿Podemos revisar los datos juntos?Can we review the data together?
- MaríaSí, te ayudo ahora mismo.Yes, I will help you right now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tengo una pregunta, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
