Tient (en. Holds)
/tjɛ̃/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
verb
To maintain something in position or in condition.
He holds the book in his hand.
Il tient le livre dans sa main.
To be in a state of possessing, keeping.
She always keeps her promises.
Elle tient toujours ses promesses.
To succeed in not yielding under pressure.
He stands firm despite the difficulties.
Il tient bon malgré les difficultés.
Etymology
The verb 'tenir' comes from the Latin 'tenere'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
take into account
Consider information when making a decision.
tenir compte de
hold on
To withstand a trial or a difficult situation.
tenir le coup
care about
To attach importance to something or someone.
tenir à
Related Words
to hold
The base verb, meaning to maintain or keep.
tenir
to retain
To conserve or keep something in memory or under control.
retenir
to support
To help or keep something in place.
soutenir
Slang Meanings
To be in trouble but continue.
He's in a tough spot, but he's still hanging in there.
Il est dans la galère, mais il tient toujours.
To be faithful to one's commitments.
She is really in the game, she keeps her promises.
Elle est vraiment dans le coup, elle tient ses promesses.