The word "atener" is a verb.
/a.teˈneɾ/
In the Spanish language, "atener" is an archaic verb that is infrequently used in modern conversation. It typically means "to hold" or "to maintain," and can convey a sense of sticking to or being bound by something, whether it be a principle, a duty, or an agreement. Given its archaic nature, its frequency of use is quite low, and it is more likely to appear in written texts (literature, legal documents) than in oral speech.
Es importante atenerse a los principios de la ética en todo momento.
It is important to hold to the principles of ethics at all times.
El contrato nos obliga a atener lo acordado durante este periodo.
The contract obliges us to maintain what was agreed upon during this period.
Si no te atienes a las normas, podrías enfrentar consecuencias.
If you do not hold to the rules, you could face consequences.
While "atener" itself is not commonly featured in idiomatic expressions due to its archaic status, it can still appear in phrases that describe adherence to certain rules or principles.
Todos debemos atenernos a las reglas para mantener el orden.
We must all adhere to the rules to maintain order.
Atenerse a lo pactado
To adhere to what was agreed upon
Es crucial atenerse a lo pactado en el acuerdo para evitar malentendidos.
It is crucial to adhere to what was agreed upon in the agreement to avoid misunderstandings.
Atenerse a las consecuencias
To accept the consequences
The verb "atener" derives from Latin "attenēre," which means "to hold fast" or "to bind." The Latin roots consist of "ad-" (to) and "tenēre" (to hold), thus the verb conceptually relates to holding on to something or keeping it in place.
Synonyms: - Sostener (to support) - Mantener (to maintain) - Retener (to retain)
Antonyms: - Soltar (to release) - Dejar (to leave/let go) - Desprender (to detach)