Spanish word

tenencia

Pronunciation

IPA/teˈnenθja/

Meaning

  • feminine nounpossession

Example

La tenencia de armas está prohibida en este país.

The possession of weapons is prohibited in this country.

Illustration for tenencia (possession)

More examples

La tenencia responsable de una mascota requiere paseos y cuidados.

Responsible possession of a pet requires walks and care.

Core concept

The factual state of keeping something in one's control without implying legal ownership.

Common phrases

  • la tenencia responsable

    responsible possession

  • tenencia de mascotas

    pet possession

  • tenencia de llaves

    possession of keys

Similar words

posesión: Having an item physically in hand or under immediate control as actual possession.
propiedad: Having legal title or ownership rights to an object as recognized by law.
portación: Carrying an item (often a weapon) on the person, especially while out in public.

Definition in Spanish

Estado de mantener algo en posesión o bajo control, con énfasis en la situación de hecho más que en la propiedad jurídica.

Word origin

The word comes from Latin tenēre 'to hold' with Spanish tener and the nominal suffix -encia creating a noun for the condition of possession.

Usage tips

  • English lookalikes such as tenancy or tenure often suggest a rental or formal status, whereas Spanish tenencia denotes actual holding or custody.

Other meanings

  • ownershipnoun
  • holdingnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word