Using "Tener que + infinitive" in Spanish
Use the expression "tener que" followed by an infinitive verb to say when you "have to" do something.
The structure is subject + tener (conjugate for subject) + que + infinitive verb.
Listening:
This couple describes some things they have to do before going on a trip: (Start at 1:17) https://youtu.be/2s-zDtpL8ww?si=lxzK4qMm-fSFcoxY&t=78
Sentences:
Here's how you can use this expression with various pronouns, along with examples of chores around the house.
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| Yo tengo que limpiar mi cuarto. | I have to clean my room. |
| Tú tienes que lavar los platos. | You have to wash the dishes. |
| Él/Ella tiene que sacar la basura. | He/She has to take out the trash. |
| Usted tiene que poner la mesa. | You (formal, so "sir" or "ma'am") have to set the table. |
Tener que examples
Decide if you should use and conjugate "tener" or if you should just conjugate the main action verb (like "clean," "cook," or "play"). Remember, use "tener" when someone has to do something. Use the main verb to simply say that someone does something.
| # | English | Español |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | You have to wash the dishes. | Tú .......... que lavar los platos. |
| 2 | I have to straighten up my room. | Yo .......... que arreglar mi cuarto. |
| 3 | They have to cook dinner. | Ellos .......... que cocinar la cena. |
| 4 | We have to take out the trash. | Nosotros .......... que sacar la basura. |
| 5 | Y'all have to sweep the floor. | Ustedes .......... que barrer el piso. |
| 6 | I have to make the bed. | Yo .......... que hacer la cama. |
| 7 | You have to set the table. | Tú .......... que poner la mesa. |
| 8 | He lives in the green house. | Él .......... en la casa verde. |
| 9 | She cleans the windows. | Ella .......... las ventanas. |
| 10 | We study Spanish. | Nosotros .......... español. |
| 11 | You (formal) have to iron the clothes. | Usted .......... que planchar la ropa. |