What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means "You've got eggs". In this context, the word huevos (eggs) refers to testicles.
Which one should you use?
While tienes huevos is a vulgar way to express this sentiment, you can use tienes agallas to say "you have guts" in a non-vulgar way. Additionally, tienes cojones translates more directly to "You've got testicles."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
tienes huevos is highly informal and can be considered vulgar or offensive depending on the social setting.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you can use tienes pelotas to convey the same idea. In Colombia, the phrase Tienes berraquera can be translated as "You've got boldness."
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is built using the verb tener (to have). To change the subject, you must conjugate the verb accordingly. For example, to say "he has balls", you would use tiene huevos.
Did you know?
- In Mexico, the word huevón is derived from huevo but means the opposite of brave. It describes a person who is incredibly lazy, as if they are just 'sitting on their eggs'.
- The word huevos can also be used in the phrase a huevos to express strong agreement or a sense of 'of course'. In this context, it functions as a slang affirmation rather than a comment on courage.
- The word agallas, used in the polite alternative tienes agallas, refers literally to the gills of a fish. Just as gills allow a fish to breathe, the metaphor suggests having the essential 'organs' for courage.
Examples in context
- ¡Tienes huevos para hacer eso!You've got balls to do that!
- Tienes huevos para decir eso.You've got balls to say that.
- Para enfrentarse al jefe, tienes huevos.You've got balls to confront the boss.
- No es fácil, pero tienes huevos.It is not easy, but you've got balls.
Example conversation
Javier tells Lucía he is going to quit his job today.
- JavierVoy a renunciar a mi trabajo hoy mismo.I'm going to quit my job today.
- Lucía¡Guau! Tienes huevos, Javier.Wow! You've got balls, Javier.
- JavierYa no aguanto más este sitio.I can't stand this place anymore.
- LucíaTe admiro por tomar esa decisión.I admire you for making that decision.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
