Verb
/tener-se/
"Tenerse" is a reflexive verb in Spanish that can imply a notion of self-restraint, holding oneself in a specific position, or remaining in a state. It is often used in contexts where one controls their own actions or behavior. The frequency of use can vary, but it is generally more common in spoken language, especially in informal conversations.
Es importante que te tengas calma durante el examen.
It is important that you hold yourself calm during the exam.
Ella se tiene de pie para escuchar mejor.
She holds herself standing to listen better.
Debes aprender a tenerte en situaciones complicadas.
You must learn to restrain yourself in complicated situations.
"Tenerse" can be involved in various idiomatic expressions. Here are a few examples:
Tenerse en cuenta
to take into account
Es esencial tenerse en cuenta las opiniones de todos.
It is essential to take into account everyone's opinions.
No te tengas tanto
Don't hold yourself back
En la fiesta, no te tengas tanto, disfruta.
At the party, don't hold yourself back, enjoy.
Tenerse firme
to hold one's ground
Aunque hubo presión, se tuvo firme en su decisión.
Although there was pressure, he held his ground in his decision.
No hay que tenerse por vencido
One must not hold oneself as defeated
Es importante no tenerse por vencido ante los retos.
It is important not to hold oneself as defeated in the face of challenges.
Tenerse bien
to keep oneself well
Es necesario tenerse bien para poder trabajar efectivamente.
It is necessary to keep oneself well in order to work effectively.
The verb "tener" comes from Latin "tenere," which means "to hold" or "to keep." The reflexive form "tenerse" developed over time to reflect the action being done to oneself.
Synonyms: - Acontarse (to hold oneself) - Autocontrolarse (to self-control) - Mantenerse (to maintain oneself)
Antonyms: - Descontrolarse (to lose control) - Rendirse (to give up) - Ceder (to yield)