tengo un lápiz
/tenɡo un lapiθ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I have a pencil" is translated into Spanish as tengo un lápiz.
This phrase is a statement used to say that you possess a writing tool. You can use Tengo un lápiz yo. if you wish to place specific emphasis on the pronoun yo (I).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of tengo (I have), un (a/an) and lápiz (pencil).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain Latin American countries, such as Colombia and Venezuela, you may also say Tengo un lapicero. to mean "I have a pencil".
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb tengo is the first-person singular present indicative of tener (to have). Because the verb form itself implies the subject, the subject pronoun yo (I) is often omitted. The article un is masculine to agree with the masculine noun lápiz.
How do you pronounce it?
/tenɡo un lapiθ/
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Tengo un lápiz en mi mochila.I have a pencil in my backpack.
- No te preocupes, tengo un lápiz.Don't worry, I have a pencil.
- Tengo un lápiz nuevo para la clase.I have a new pencil for the class.
Example conversation
Lucía and Daniel are in a classroom before an exam.
- Lucía¿Tienes algo para escribir?Do you have something to write with?
- DanielSí, tengo un lápiz.Yes, I have a pencil.
- LucíaGracias, Daniel.Thanks, Daniel.
- DanielDe nada, Lucía.You're welcome, Lucía.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lápiz, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
