tengo un bolígrafo
/tenɡo un boliɡɾafo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I have a pen" is translated into Spanish as tengo un bolígrafo.
This phrase is used to state that you possess a writing instrument. The term bolígrafo is a masculine noun specifically referring to a ballpoint pen.
What does it mean word for word?
tengo is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb tener, meaning "I have". un bolígrafo means "a pen".
Which one should you use?
While bolígrafo refers to a ballpoint pen, pluma often refers to a fountain pen or a feather quill.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, the word lapicero is used instead of bolígrafo to mean pen. Additionally, Tengo una pluma. can be used to say "I have a pen" in some regions.
How does it change in a sentence?
The indefinite article un is masculine to agree with the masculine noun bolígrafo.
How do you pronounce it?
/tenɡo un boliɡɾafo/
Did you know?
- The verb tener in tengo is used in Spanish to express not only possession but also physical sensations, such as tengo hambre for 'I am hungry'.
- The word bolígrafo is a relatively modern invention, first appearing in recorded language in 1947. It was created by combining 'bola' for 'ball' and the suffix '-grafo' to describe the mechanics of a ballpoint pen.
- While lapicero means 'pen' in several Latin American countries, in other regions it refers to a 'pencil holder' or a case for pencils.
Examples in context
- Tengo un bolígrafo.I have a pen.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase tengo un bolígrafo.Tatoeba #1060967 by Shishir, translation #255571 by CK
- ¡Sí, tengo un boli! Aquí lo tienes.Yes, I have a pen! Here you go.
- Tengo un bolígrafo azul.I have a blue pen.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are in a classroom.
- JavierElena, ¿tienes algo para escribir?Elena, do you have something to write with?
- ElenaLo siento, Javier, no tengo nada.I'm sorry, Javier, I don't have anything.
- JavierNo hay problema, yo tengo un bolígrafo.No problem, I have a pen.
- ElenaMuchas gracias por prestarme uno.Thank you very much for lending me one.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bolígrafo, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
