ter — visual vocabulary card
At the A1 level, the verb 'ter' is introduced as one of the most essential tools for basic survival and self-introduction in Portuguese. Students learn that 'ter' primarily means 'to have' in the sense of possession. You use it to talk about your family ('Eu tenho dois irmãos'), your belongings ('Eu tenho um carro'), and most importantly, your age ('Eu tenho vinte anos'). This last point is a critical hurdle for English speakers who are used to using 'to be' for age. At this stage, learners focus on the present tense conjugation: tenho, tem, temos, têm. The distinction between the singular 'tem' and the plural 'têm' is introduced, although the focus is mostly on oral communication where they sound identical. Learners also begin to use 'ter' to express basic physical needs like hunger ('fome'), thirst ('sede'), and sleepiness ('sono'). The concept of 'ter que' for simple obligations like 'I have to go' (Eu tenho que ir) is also a core part of the A1 curriculum. By the end of this level, a student should be able to describe themselves and their immediate environment using 'ter' comfortably.
As students progress to the A2 level, the use of 'ter' expands into the past and future tenses. The Pretérito Perfeito (simple past) forms like 'tive', 'teve', and 'tiveram' are mastered, allowing learners to talk about things they owned or experienced in the past ('Eu tive um gato quando era criança'). The Pretérito Imperfeito ('tinha') is also introduced to describe ongoing states or habits in the past ('Eu tinha muito tempo livre'). This level also solidifies the use of 'ter' in Brazilian Portuguese as a substitute for 'there is/are' (haver) in informal contexts, which is vital for understanding native speakers. Learners start to use 'ter' in more complex phrases like 'ter saudades' (to miss someone/something) and 'ter cuidado' (to be careful). The future tense ('terei') and the immediate future ('vou ter') are also practiced. A2 learners are expected to handle these different tenses with relative accuracy in simple conversations, moving beyond just the present moment to narrate their lives and plans.
At the B1 level, 'ter' becomes a structural cornerstone for more advanced grammar. This is where learners encounter the compound tenses, where 'ter' acts as an auxiliary verb. For example, the Pretérito Perfeito Composto ('Tenho estudado muito') is used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into the present. This level also introduces the Subjunctive mood, which is essential for expressing desires, doubts, and possibilities. Forms like 'tenha', 'tenhamos', and 'tenham' are used in sentences like 'Espero que você tenha um bom dia' (I hope you have a good day). The B1 learner also begins to distinguish more clearly between 'ter que' and 'ter de', and starts to use 'ter' in a wider variety of idiomatic expressions such as 'ter razão' (to be right) or 'ter vergonha' (to be ashamed/shy). The focus shifts from simple possession to using 'ter' as a functional part of complex sentence structures and emotional expression.
By the B2 level, the student is expected to use 'ter' with a high degree of nuance and grammatical precision. This includes mastering the Imperfect Subjunctive ('tivesse') and the Future Subjunctive ('tiver'), which are crucial for conditional 'if' sentences ('Se eu tivesse mais dinheiro, viajaria mais'). The B2 learner uses 'ter' in more formal registers and understands when it is appropriate to swap it for 'haver' or 'possuir' to vary their vocabulary. They are comfortable with compound subjunctive tenses ('Se eu tivesse tido tempo...') and use 'ter' to express subtle shades of meaning in professional and academic contexts. At this stage, the learner also masters more complex idioms and phrasal uses, such as 'ter em conta' (to take into account) or 'ter a ver com' (to have to do with). The use of 'ter' becomes second nature, and the learner can switch between its various functions—possession, existence, obligation, and auxiliary—without hesitation.
At the C1 level, 'ter' is used with the sophistication of a near-native speaker. The learner understands the historical and regional variations of the verb, such as the subtle differences in usage between European and Brazilian Portuguese. They can use 'ter' in literary or highly formal contexts where it might take on more abstract meanings. C1 learners are adept at using 'ter' in complex argumentative structures, such as 'tem-se que considerar' (one must consider). They also master the most obscure idiomatic uses and can play with the verb in creative writing or complex debates. The distinction between 'ter' and 'haver' is no longer just a rule but a stylistic choice used to convey specific tones. The learner also understands the use of 'ter' in fixed legal or administrative phrases. At this level, the focus is on stylistic elegance and the ability to use 'ter' to express complex, abstract thoughts with precision.
The C2 level represents a complete mastery of 'ter', including its most archaic, poetic, and highly specialized uses. A C2 speaker can navigate the entire history of the verb, from its Latin roots to its modern-day slang iterations. They can use 'ter' in a way that is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, employing it in complex philosophical discussions, legal documents, or high-level literature. They understand the rhythmic and phonetic role 'ter' plays in Portuguese poetry and song lyrics. At this level, the speaker can also analyze the sociolinguistic implications of using 'ter' instead of 'haver' in different Lusophone cultures. There are no remaining 'traps' for the C2 learner; they use the verb with total flexibility, including its use in rare compound structures and highly specific regional idioms. The verb 'ter' is no longer a word to be studied, but a versatile tool for total self-expression in the Portuguese language.

ter في 30 ثانية

  • The verb 'ter' is the primary way to express possession in Portuguese, equivalent to the English 'to have' in almost all contexts of ownership.
  • Crucially, 'ter' is used for age and physical sensations like hunger or thirst, where English would typically use the verb 'to be'.
  • It serves as a common auxiliary verb for compound tenses and expresses obligation when paired with 'que' or 'de' (e.g., 'tenho que ir').
  • In informal speech, particularly in Brazil, 'ter' frequently replaces 'haver' to mean 'there is' or 'there are', making it exceptionally high-frequency.

The Portuguese verb ter is arguably the most fundamental and versatile word in the entire language. At its most basic level, it translates to the English verb to have, indicating possession or ownership. However, for an English speaker, the journey with ter is much deeper than a simple one-to-one translation. In Portuguese, this verb is a linguistic Swiss Army knife, used to express age, physical sensations, obligations, and even existence in informal contexts. Understanding ter is the key to unlocking basic communication and sounding natural in daily interactions across Portugal, Brazil, and beyond.

Possession
The primary use is to denote that someone owns or possesses something. Whether it is a physical object like a car or an abstract concept like an idea, ter is the standard choice. For example, saying 'Eu tenho um livro' means 'I have a book'.

Nós temos uma casa muito bonita no campo.

Age and Physical States
Unlike English, where we use 'to be' for age (I am 20), Portuguese uses ter. You 'have' years. Similarly, many physical sensations that English describes with adjectives (I am hungry, I am cold) are expressed in Portuguese as 'having' those states (I have hunger, I have cold).

Furthermore, in Brazilian Portuguese especially, ter is frequently used to mean 'there is' or 'there are' in informal speech, replacing the more formal verb haver. If you walk into a room and want to ask if there is water, you might hear 'Tem água?'. This usage is ubiquitous in spoken language, though in formal writing, haver remains the standard. This versatility makes ter an essential building block for any learner.

Você tem fome agora ou quer esperar?

Aqui tem muitas pessoas interessantes.

Obligation
When combined with the preposition 'que' or 'de', ter expresses necessity or obligation, much like 'have to' in English. 'Eu tenho que estudar' translates directly to 'I have to study'.

Eles têm que chegar cedo para a reunião.

Eu tenho vinte e cinco anos de idade.

Using ter correctly requires mastering its irregular conjugation patterns across various tenses. Because it is an irregular verb, it does not follow the standard rules for verbs ending in '-er'. In the present tense, the forms change significantly: 'eu tenho', 'você tem', 'nós temos', and 'eles têm'. Notice the circumflex accent on 'têm' (plural), which is crucial for distinguishing it from 'tem' (singular) in written Portuguese, although the pronunciation is identical in many dialects.

The Present Tense
The present tense is used for current possession, age, and habitual actions. 'Ela tem um cachorro' (She has a dog). It is also the base for expressing immediate needs: 'Eu tenho sede' (I am thirsty).

Vocês têm tempo para conversar agora?

The Past Tense (Pretérito Perfeito)
In the past, ter becomes 'tive', 'teve', 'tivemos', 'tiveram'. This is used for completed actions or states in the past. 'Eu tive um problema' (I had a problem). It implies the state has ended.

When expressing existence, ter acts as an impersonal verb in the third person singular. Even if you are talking about multiple things, in informal Brazilian Portuguese, you use 'tem'. For example: 'Tem muitos carros na rua' (There are many cars on the street). However, in formal contexts, you should use 'Há muitos carros'.

Ontem eu tive uma reunião muito longa.

Future and Conditional
The future 'terei' and conditional 'teria' are used for possibilities and upcoming events. 'Eu teria mais dinheiro se não gastasse tanto' (I would have more money if I didn't spend so much).

Se você estudar, terá ótimos resultados.

Nós teremos que viajar na próxima semana.

You will hear ter everywhere, from the streets of Lisbon to the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. It is perhaps the most high-frequency verb in the language. In a casual setting, it replaces more formal verbs constantly. If someone asks 'What's for dinner?', the answer might be 'Tem pizza' (There is pizza). If someone is feeling unwell, they say 'Tenho dor de cabeça' (I have a headache). It is the heartbeat of conversational Portuguese.

In the Marketplace
When shopping, you use ter to check availability. 'Você tem esse sapato em tamanho 40?' (Do you have this shoe in size 40?). It is the standard way to inquire about stock or services.

O senhor tem troco para cinquenta reais?

Social Interactions
In social settings, ter is used to ask about family, plans, or feelings. 'Você tem irmãos?' (Do you have siblings?). 'Tem certeza?' (Are you sure? - literally, 'Do you have certainty?').

In professional environments, ter is used to discuss deadlines and responsibilities. 'Temos um prazo apertado' (We have a tight deadline). It is also used in the context of 'having' a meeting or 'having' a call. The verb's adaptability allows it to fit into almost any scenario, making it the first verb most students learn and the one they use most often.

Amanhã teremos um feriado nacional.

Quem tem o contato do gerente?

Idiomatic Expressions
You will hear phrases like 'ter juízo' (to be sensible/behave) or 'ter pressa' (to be in a hurry). These are fixed expressions where ter is the only verb that works.

Não tenha medo de errar ao falar português.

For English speakers, the most frequent mistake when using ter is applying English logic to age and physical states. In English, we say 'I am hungry' or 'I am 30 years old'. In Portuguese, using 'sou' or 'estou' in these cases is incorrect. You must use ter. Another major pitfall is the confusion between 'tem' and 'têm'. While they sound the same, the accent in 'têm' is mandatory for plural subjects (eles, elas, vocês). Forgetting this accent is a very common spelling error even for native speakers, but it is a hallmark of good writing.

The 'To Be' Trap
Avoid saying 'Eu estou com 20 anos' (I am with 20 years) or 'Eu sou 20 anos'. The correct form is 'Eu tenho 20 anos'. Similarly, 'Eu estou fome' is wrong; it should be 'Eu tenho fome' or 'Eu estou com fome'.

Errado: Eu sou trinta anos. Correto: Eu tenho trinta anos.

Existence vs. Possession
While 'tem' is used for 'there is' in Brazil, learners often over-apply this. In formal writing or in Portugal, using 'ter' for existence can be seen as a mistake. Use 'haver' or 'existir' when you want to be precise or formal.

Another mistake is the conjugation of the past tense. Because ter is irregular, many learners try to say 'teram' instead of 'tiveram' or 'ti' instead of 'tive'. These errors are immediately noticeable. It is worth spending extra time memorizing the 'tive' stem for the past tense. Also, be careful with 'ter que' vs 'ter de'. While both are mostly interchangeable, using 'ter que' in a very formal Portuguese (Portugal) setting might be slightly frowned upon, though this is changing.

Eles têm (plural) muitos amigos, mas ele tem (singular) apenas um.

Eu tive que sair mais cedo ontem.

Confusion with 'Haver'
Learners often confuse the auxiliary use of 'ter' with 'haver'. In modern Portuguese, 'ter' has almost entirely replaced 'haver' as an auxiliary verb (e.g., 'tenho feito' vs 'hei feito'). Using 'haver' as an auxiliary in speech sounds archaic.

While ter is the most common way to express possession, Portuguese offers several alternatives that can add precision or formality to your speech. Depending on the context, you might choose a verb that specifically implies legal ownership, availability, or the presence of something. Understanding these nuances will help you move from a basic level to a more advanced, sophisticated command of the language.

Possuir vs. Ter
Possuir is more formal than ter. It specifically refers to legal ownership or having a quality. You would use possuir in a legal contract or a formal description of a property. 'A empresa possui três fábricas' sounds more professional than 'A empresa tem três fábricas'.

Ele possui vasto conhecimento na área.

Haver vs. Ter
As mentioned, haver is the formal counterpart for existence. While ter is used in the street, haver is used in books, news reports, and academic papers. 'Há esperança' (There is hope) is more poetic and formal than 'Tem esperança'.

Other alternatives include dispor de (to have at one's disposal), which is very common in business or service contexts. 'Dispomos de vários modelos' (We have several models available). There is also conter (to contain), used for physical contents. 'A garrafa contém água' (The bottle contains water). Finally, sentir (to feel) can sometimes replace ter when talking about emotions, though ter is still very common (e.g., 'Tenho medo' vs 'Sinto medo').

O hotel dispõe de piscina aquecida.

Esta caixa contém documentos importantes.

Obter
Obter means 'to obtain' or 'to get'. While you 'have' (ter) a result, you 'obtain' (obter) it through effort. It's a useful distinction to make in academic or professional settings.

How Formal Is It?

رسمي

"A instituição tem a honra de convidá-lo."

محايد

"Eu tenho um compromisso às duas horas."

غير رسمي

"Tem muita gente na festa hoje."

Child friendly

"Você tem um brinquedo novo?"

عامية

"O cara tem a manha!"

حقيقة ممتعة

In Old Portuguese, 'ter' and 'haver' were used more interchangeably for possession, but 'ter' eventually won the battle for dominance in daily speech, while 'haver' retreated to formal and existential roles.

دليل النطق

UK /teɾ/
US /teʁ/
The stress is on the only syllable, but in conjugated forms, it follows standard Portuguese stress rules (usually the penultimate syllable).
يتقافى مع
ser ler ver crer quer prazer dizer fazer
أخطاء شائعة
  • Pronouncing the 'e' too open like 'air'.
  • Over-pronouncing the final 'r' like an American 'r'.
  • Failing to nasalize the 'en' in 'tenho'.
  • Missing the distinction between 'tem' and 'têm' in writing.
  • Pronouncing 'tive' like 'tyve' instead of 'tee-vee'.

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 1/5

Very easy to recognize as it appears in almost every paragraph.

الكتابة 3/5

Irregular conjugations and the tem/têm distinction require practice.

التحدث 2/5

High frequency makes it easy to practice, but the 'to be' habit is hard to break.

الاستماع 2/5

Clear pronunciation, though nasal sounds can be tricky for beginners.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

eu você um uma não

تعلّم لاحقاً

ser estar fazer ir poder

متقدم

haver possuir deter conter obter

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Irregular Present Tense

Eu tenho, você tem, nós temos, eles têm.

Compound Tenses with Ter

Eu tenho estudado (I have been studying).

Obligation with Ter Que

Temos que sair agora.

Age Expression

Ela tem dez anos.

Existential Ter (Brazil)

Tem um carro na rua.

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

Eu tenho um gato preto.

I have a black cat.

Present tense, first person singular.

2

Você tem quantos anos?

How old are you?

Using 'ter' for age is mandatory.

3

Nós temos uma casa grande.

We have a big house.

Present tense, first person plural.

4

Eles têm muita fome.

They are very hungry.

Note the circumflex accent for plural.

5

Eu tenho que estudar hoje.

I have to study today.

'Ter que' expresses obligation.

6

Tem café na cozinha?

Is there coffee in the kitchen?

Informal use of 'ter' for existence.

7

Ela tem olhos verdes.

She has green eyes.

Describing physical characteristics.

8

Vocês têm tempo agora?

Do you (plural) have time now?

Plural 'you' with 'têm'.

1

Ontem eu tive uma ideia ótima.

Yesterday I had a great idea.

Pretérito Perfeito (completed past action).

2

Nós tínhamos um carro azul.

We used to have a blue car.

Pretérito Imperfeito (ongoing past state).

3

Você teve tempo de fazer o bolo?

Did you have time to make the cake?

Past tense question.

4

Eles tiveram muita sorte no jogo.

They were very lucky in the game.

Past tense plural 'tiveram'.

5

Eu vou ter uma reunião amanhã.

I am going to have a meeting tomorrow.

Immediate future with 'ir + ter'.

6

Antigamente não tinha internet aqui.

In the past, there was no internet here.

Imperfect 'tinha' used for existence in the past.

7

Ela teve que sair mais cedo.

She had to leave earlier.

Past obligation.

8

Nós tivemos um problema com o voo.

We had a problem with the flight.

Past tense 'tivemos'.

1

Tenho estudado muito ultimamente.

I have been studying a lot lately.

Pretérito Perfeito Composto (auxiliary use).

2

Espero que você tenha sucesso.

I hope you have success.

Present Subjunctive 'tenha'.

3

Se eu tiver dinheiro, eu vou.

If I have money, I will go.

Future Subjunctive 'tiver'.

4

Ela quer que nós tenhamos cuidado.

She wants us to be careful.

Subjunctive after a verb of wishing.

5

Você tem razão sobre esse assunto.

You are right about this matter.

Idiomatic expression 'ter razão'.

6

Não tenho tido tempo para ler.

I haven't been having time to read.

Negative compound tense.

7

É importante que eles tenham apoio.

It is important that they have support.

Subjunctive after impersonal expression.

8

Eu teria ido se soubesse.

I would have gone if I had known.

Conditional 'teria'.

1

Se eu tivesse tido mais tempo, teria terminado.

If I had had more time, I would have finished.

Compound past conditional.

2

Temos que ter em conta os riscos.

We have to take the risks into account.

Idiomatic 'ter em conta'.

3

O sucesso tem a ver com o esforço.

Success has to do with effort.

Idiomatic 'ter a ver com'.

4

Duvido que eles tivessem chegado a tempo.

I doubt they would have arrived on time.

Imperfect Subjunctive 'tivessem'.

5

Ela tem por hábito caminhar de manhã.

She has the habit of walking in the morning.

Formal expression of habit.

6

Tenhamos paciência com os resultados.

Let's have patience with the results.

Imperative/Hortatory Subjunctive.

7

O projeto terá sido concluído até amanhã.

The project will have been completed by tomorrow.

Future Perfect.

8

Não tem nada a ver com o que eu disse.

It has nothing to do with what I said.

Common idiomatic phrase.

1

Tem-se que considerar a conjuntura atual.

One must consider the current situation.

Impersonal 'se' with 'ter que'.

2

A proposta tem em vista o bem comum.

The proposal aims at the common good.

Idiomatic 'ter em vista'.

3

Caso você não tenha recebido o e-mail, avise-me.

In case you haven't received the email, let me know.

Subjunctive in a conditional clause.

4

O autor tem por objetivo desmistificar o tema.

The author aims to demystify the topic.

Formal objective expression.

5

Tais medidas têm tido um impacto positivo.

Such measures have been having a positive impact.

Compound tense with formal subject.

6

Não obstante, temos de ser realistas.

Nevertheless, we must be realistic.

Formal conjunction with obligation.

7

Ele tem-se mostrado muito colaborativo.

He has shown himself to be very collaborative.

Pronominal use with compound tense.

8

Tenhamos nós a coragem de mudar.

May we have the courage to change.

Literary/Inverted subjunctive.

1

O texto tem o condão de emocionar o leitor.

The text has the power to move the reader.

Archaic/Literary expression 'ter o condão'.

2

Tivesse ele tido mais brio, não teria falhado.

Had he had more pride, he would not have failed.

Inverted conditional (literary).

3

A decisão tem repercussões que urge analisar.

The decision has repercussions that urgently need analysis.

High-level academic/political register.

4

Tenhamos em mente a transitoriedade da vida.

Let us keep in mind the transience of life.

Philosophical use of 'ter em mente'.

5

O réu tem contra si provas irrefutáveis.

The defendant has irrefutable evidence against him.

Legal register.

6

A obra tem o mérito de ser pioneira.

The work has the merit of being a pioneer.

Critical/Academic evaluation.

7

Não se tem por certo o desfecho da crise.

The outcome of the crisis is not certain.

Passive/Impersonal formal construction.

8

Toda a ação tem um propósito subjacente.

Every action has an underlying purpose.

Philosophical/Abstract use.

تلازمات شائعة

ter fome
ter sede
ter pressa
ter medo
ter razão
ter cuidado
ter sorte
ter tempo
ter dúvida
ter sucesso

العبارات الشائعة

O que é que tem?

— What's wrong? or What's the matter?

Você está triste, o que é que tem?

Não tem de quê.

— You're welcome. (Standard response to 'Obrigado').

— Obrigado! — Não tem de quê.

Tem certeza?

— Are you sure?

Tem certeza que quer ir?

Não tem jeito.

— There's no way / It can't be helped.

Tentei consertar, mas não tem jeito.

Ter que ver.

— To have to see / To check out.

Você tem que ver esse filme.

Tem lugar?

— Is there a seat? / Is there room?

Tem lugar para mais um no carro?

Tudo a ver.

— Everything to do with / A perfect match.

Essa música tem tudo a ver com você.

Nada a ver.

— Nothing to do with / Nonsense.

Isso que você disse não tem nada a ver.

Ter juízo.

— To be sensible / To behave.

Tenha juízo na festa!

Ter pena.

— To feel sorry for / To pity.

Tenho pena dos animais abandonados.

يُخلط عادةً مع

ter vs ser

English speakers use 'ser' for age/states; Portuguese uses 'ter'.

ter vs estar

Don't use 'ter' for location; use 'estar'.

ter vs haver

Confusing existence (ter/haver) and auxiliary roles.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"Ter a faca e o queijo na mão"

— To have everything one needs to succeed in a situation.

Ele tem a faca e o queijo na mão para ganhar a eleição.

informal
"Ter macaquinhos no sótão"

— To be a bit crazy or have strange ideas.

Às vezes acho que ela tem macaquinhos no sótão.

informal/humorous
"Ter o rei na barriga"

— To be very arrogant or think one is better than others.

Desde que foi promovido, ele está com o rei na barriga.

informal
"Ter sangue de barata"

— To be passive or not react even when provoked.

Eu não teria sangue de barata para aguentar esses insultos.

informal
"Ter cabeça de vento"

— To be scatterbrained or forgetful.

Esqueci as chaves de novo, tenho cabeça de vento.

informal
"Ter as costas quentes"

— To be protected by someone influential.

Ele faz o que quer porque tem as costas quentes.

informal
"Ter um nó na garganta"

— To have a lump in one's throat (about to cry).

Tive um nó na garganta ao ver a despedida.

neutral
"Ter mão de vaca"

— To be stingy or cheap.

Ele é muito mão de vaca, nunca paga nada.

slang
"Ter peito"

— To have the courage or 'guts' to do something.

Você tem peito para falar isso na cara dele?

informal
"Ter olhos maiores que a barriga"

— To take more food than one can eat.

Não coma tanto, você tem olhos maiores que a barriga.

informal

سهل الخلط

ter vs ser

Both translate to 'to be' in certain English contexts (age, hunger).

Ser is for permanent identity; Ter is for possession and physical states in Portuguese.

Eu sou alto (I am tall) vs Eu tenho fome (I am hungry).

ter vs estar

Both translate to 'to be' in English contexts (feelings).

Estar is for temporary location or state; Ter is for possession or specific physical sensations.

Estou em casa vs Tenho um carro.

ter vs haver

Both can mean 'there is/are'.

Haver is formal; Ter is informal (Brazil) for existence.

Há um erro vs Tem um erro.

ter vs possuir

Both mean 'to have/possess'.

Possuir is much more formal and legalistic.

Tenho uma caneta vs Possuo um imóvel.

ter vs trazer

Sometimes used to mean 'to have with you'.

Trazer implies movement (to bring); Ter is just possession.

Eu trago o livro (I bring the book) vs Eu tenho o livro (I have the book).

أنماط الجُمل

A1

Eu tenho [noun].

Eu tenho um livro.

A1

Você tem [number] anos.

Você tem vinte anos.

A2

Eu tive que [verb].

Eu tive que trabalhar.

B1

Tenho [participle] muito.

Tenho corrido muito.

B1

Espero que você tenha [noun].

Espero que você tenha sorte.

B2

Se eu tivesse [noun], eu [conditional verb].

Se eu tivesse tempo, eu iria.

C1

Tem-se que [verb].

Tem-se que analisar os fatos.

C2

Tivesse ele [participle]...

Tivesse ele falado a verdade...

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

الأفعال

الصفات

مرتبط

كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

One of the top 5 most used verbs in Portuguese.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Eu sou 20 anos. Eu tenho 20 anos.

    In Portuguese, age is something you 'have', not something you 'are'.

  • Eu estou fome. Eu tenho fome / Estou com fome.

    Physical sensations are expressed with 'ter' or 'estar com'.

  • Eles tem muitos amigos. Eles têm muitos amigos.

    Plural subjects require the circumflex accent on 'têm'.

  • Eu teram uma festa. Eles tiveram uma festa.

    Incorrect past tense conjugation. The root is 'tiv-'.

  • O livro tem na mesa. O livro está na mesa.

    Do not use 'ter' for the location of objects; use 'estar'.

نصائح

Master the 'Tive' Stem

The past tense of 'ter' is irregular. Memorize 'tive' (I had) and 'teve' (he/she had) as they are used constantly in storytelling.

Informal Existence

In Brazil, use 'tem' for 'there is' to sound natural. For example, 'Tem alguém aí?' (Is someone there?).

Age Habit

Stop saying 'I am [age]'. Practice saying 'Eu tenho [age]' until it becomes a reflex. It's the most common beginner mistake.

The Plural Accent

Always put the circumflex on 'têm' for plural. It's a small detail that shows you really know Portuguese grammar.

Obligation

Use 'ter que' + infinitive for things you must do. It's much more common than using 'dever' in casual speech.

Nasal Vowels

Listen to the 'en' in 'tenho'. It's not 'ten-ho', it's a nasalized 'e'. Try to mimic this sound to improve your accent.

Ter Razão

To say 'You are right', say 'Você tem razão'. Using 'Você está certo' is also possible, but 'ter razão' is very idiomatic.

Daily Inventory

Look around your room and name things you have: 'Eu tenho uma cama', 'Eu tenho um computador'. It builds vocabulary quickly.

Checking Availability

When entering a shop, 'Vocês têm...?' is the perfect way to start a question about a product.

Subjunctive Use

Learn 'tenha' for the subjunctive. It's used after 'espero que', 'quero que', and other expressions of desire.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Think of 'TER' as 'To Earn Rewards'—if you have something, you've earned it. Or associate 'Tenho' with 'TEN' things I have.

ربط بصري

Imagine a person holding a large 'T' shape in their arms, physically possessing it.

Word Web

tenho tem temos têm tive tinha terei tenha

تحدٍّ

Try to write five sentences about your morning using 'ter' for possession, age, hunger, obligation, and existence.

أصل الكلمة

Derived from the Latin verb 'tenēre', which meant 'to hold', 'to keep', or 'to possess'. Over centuries, it evolved from the physical act of holding something in one's hand to the abstract concept of possession and eventually to its modern auxiliary functions.

المعنى الأصلي: To hold or grasp physically.

Romance (Indo-European)

السياق الثقافي

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that 'ter' is used in many slang terms for wealth or poverty.

English speakers must unlearn the habit of using 'to be' for age and physical states.

The song 'Tive Razão' by Seu Jorge. The common phrase 'Ter ou não ter, eis a questão' (To have or not to have - a play on Hamlet). The poem 'Ter Tudo' by Fernando Pessoa.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

At a Restaurant

  • Você tem uma mesa?
  • Tem prato do dia?
  • Tenho muita fome.
  • Tem troco?

Introductions

  • Tenho 30 anos.
  • Tenho dois filhos.
  • Tenho um emprego novo.
  • Tenho muito prazer em conhecer.

Workplace

  • Temos uma reunião.
  • Tenho que terminar isso.
  • Tem alguma dúvida?
  • Temos um prazo.

Health

  • Tenho dor de cabeça.
  • Tenho febre.
  • Tenho uma consulta.
  • Tenho alergia.

Daily Life

  • Tenho pressa.
  • Não tenho tempo.
  • Tem pão em casa?
  • Tenho que ir.

بدايات محادثة

"Você tem algum animal de estimação em casa?"

"Quantos anos você tem e quando é seu aniversário?"

"Você tem planos interessantes para o próximo final de semana?"

"Você tem irmãos ou é filho único?"

"O que você tem que fazer obrigatoriamente todos os dias?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Escreva sobre três coisas que você tem e que são muito importantes para você.

Descreva uma situação em que você teve muita sorte na sua vida.

O que você tem que fazer para melhorar o seu nível de português?

Fale sobre um sonho que você tem para o futuro profissional.

Descreva como você se sente hoje usando expressões com o verbo ter.

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

Use 'tem' for singular subjects (ele, ela, você) and 'têm' for plural subjects (eles, elas, vocês). They sound the same, but the accent is vital for writing.

Yes, you must use 'ter' for age in Portuguese. 'Eu tenho 20 anos' is the only correct way to say 'I am 20 years old'.

Both are correct. 'Ter que' is more common in Brazil, while 'ter de' is more common in Portugal. Both express obligation.

It's an informal evolution of the language. While 'Há' is the formal word, 'Tem' is used in 99% of spoken Brazilian Portuguese for existence.

Yes, it is used to form compound tenses like the Pretérito Perfeito Composto (e.g., 'Tenho feito').

It is irregular. The main forms are: tive, teve, tivemos, tiveram. Do not use 'teram' or 'ti'.

It means 'to miss' someone or something. It literally translates to 'to have saudades'.

No. To say 'The book is on the table', use 'O livro está na mesa'. 'Ter' is for possession, not location.

Yes, for hunger (fome), thirst (sede), cold (frio), heat (calor), and sleepiness (sono).

'Ter' is common and versatile; 'Possuir' is formal and usually refers to legal ownership or specific qualities.

اختبر نفسك 180 أسئلة

writing

Escreva uma frase dizendo sua idade.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase dizendo que você tem um animal.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase dizendo que você tem que estudar.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase dizendo que você está com sede.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva o que você teve que fazer ontem.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva sobre algo que você tinha quando era criança.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase usando 'ter saudades'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'Espero que você tenha...'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva sobre algo que você tem feito ultimamente.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'Se eu tiver tempo...'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'Se eu tivesse dinheiro...'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use a expressão 'ter a ver com' em uma frase.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'ter em conta'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase formal usando 'ter por objetivo'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use 'tem-se que' em um contexto acadêmico.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'ter em vista'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase literária com 'ter o condão'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use 'ter brio' em uma descrição de personagem.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Crie uma frase com 'ter o rei na barriga'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Escreva uma frase com 'ter as costas quentes'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga sua idade em voz alta.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Pergunte a alguém se eles têm um cachorro.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você está com muita fome.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Conte algo que você teve que fazer ontem.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você tinha um brinquedo favorito.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Deseje sucesso a um amigo.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você tem estudado português.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga o que você faria se tivesse um milhão de euros.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Explique que algo não tem nada a ver com você.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Argumente que 'tem-se que' investir em educação.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Use 'ter em vista' em um contexto de negócios.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Use um provérbio ou expressão idiomática com 'ter'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Descreva alguém arrogante usando 'ter o rei na barriga'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você tem que ir ao supermercado.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você teve sorte hoje.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você terá tempo amanhã.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Diga que você tem razão.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Expresse um desejo formal usando 'tenhamos'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Fale sobre a transitoriedade da vida usando 'ter em mente'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Pergunte se tem café.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Eu tenho um irmão.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Você tem horas?'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Nós tivemos um gato.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Ela tinha medo.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Tenho tido sorte.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Espero que tenha tempo.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Se eu tivesse sabido...'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Não tem nada a ver.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Tem-se que considerar as opções.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Tenhamos paciência.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Tivesse ele brio...'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Ter o rei na barriga.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Tem pão?'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Tivemos que sair.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Ouça e escreva: 'Se tiver tempo, ligue.'

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

هل كان هذا مفيداً؟
لا توجد تعليقات بعد. كن أول من يشارك أفكاره!