Tiens (en. Hold)

/tjɛ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

verb

Form of the verb 'tenir' in the 2nd person singular of the imperative.

Hold that firmly in your hand!

Tiens ça bien en main!

interjection

Used to signal an unexpected event or draw attention.

Hey, here's a visitor!

Tiens, voilà un visiteur!

Also used to express surprise.

Oh, I didn't know you were coming!

Tiens, je ne savais pas que tu venais!

From the verb 'tenir', of Latin origin 'tenere'.

Well, would you look at that

Expression of surprise or astonishment.

tiens donc

keep up to date

To stay informed.

tiens à jour

to hold

To keep something in place.

tenir

holder

One who holds or possesses.

tenant

Used to show that one is surprised by information.

Hey, did you really pass the exam?

Tiens, tu as vraiment réussi l'examen?

Expression to indicate that you are giving something to someone.

Here, take this!

Tiens, prends ça!