GENERAL INFO

Tiens is the conjugated form of the verb "tenir" (to hold, to keep). It also functions very commonly as an interjection, meaning "here," "hey," or "look."

USAGE

As a verb: "Tu tiens le parapluie." (You are holding the umbrella.)

As an interjection, it's used when:

Giving something: "Tiens, voilà ton livre." (Here, there's your book.)

Expressing surprise: "Tiens, tu es là!" (Hey, you're here!)

Calling attention: "Tiens, regarde ça!" (Look, check that out!)

TRAPS

Remember tiens is informal (tu). For formal or plural situations, use "tenez." Its interjection meaning is distinct from the verb "tenir," so don't confuse the two in context.

CONJUGATION - 3rd Group

Je tiens

Tu tiens

Il/elle/on tient

Nous tenons

Vous tenez

Ils/elles tiennent