Meaning
Stating one's age in response to an inquiry.
Cultural Background
In Brazil, people often drop the 'Eu' and just say 'Tenho vinte anos'. Similar to Brazil, the structure is standard. It is very polite to use the full sentence in formal settings.
The 'Ter' Rule
Always associate age with the verb 'ter'. If you are talking about age, 'ter' is your best friend.
Avoid 'Ser'
Using 'ser' for age is the most common mistake for English speakers. Avoid it at all costs!
Meaning
Stating one's age in response to an inquiry.
The 'Ter' Rule
Always associate age with the verb 'ter'. If you are talking about age, 'ter' is your best friend.
Avoid 'Ser'
Using 'ser' for age is the most common mistake for English speakers. Avoid it at all costs!
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Eu ______ vinte anos.
Age is always expressed with 'ter'.
Which is correct?
Which sentence is correct?
Never use 'ser' for age.
Match the subject to the verb.
Match: Eu/Ele/Nós
Conjugation of 'ter'.
Complete the reply.
A: Quantos anos você tem? B: ______.
Full sentence structure.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEu ______ vinte anos.
Age is always expressed with 'ter'.
Which sentence is correct?
Never use 'ser' for age.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Conjugation of 'ter'.
A: Quantos anos você tem? B: ______.
Full sentence structure.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it is correct, but 'de idade' is often omitted in casual conversation.
It marks the plural form of the verb 'ter'.
The grammar is the same, though the pronunciation of 'vinte' will be more like 'veen-tuh'.
Yes, 'O meu cachorro tem cinco anos' is perfectly natural.
You can say 'Eu prefiro não dizer' (I prefer not to say).
No, you can use any number, e.g., 'Eu tenho trinta anos'.
Related Phrases
Quantos anos você tem?
builds onHow old are you?
Fazer anos
similarTo have a birthday
Ter idade para
specialized formTo be old enough for
