Does Spanish use the personal "a" with "tener"?

Question

For example, which is correct?: "Tengo tres hijas" or "Tengo a tres hijas". Gracias.

Answer 1

The Verbs "Tener" & "Hay"

 
Do not use the personal “a” after the verb “tener” or any form of “hay” (from haber).

 
There is an exception to this rule where the direct object of “tener” means to hold or to have someone physically or emotionally close to you.

 
- Cuando necesitan consuelo y apoyo, tengo a mis niños en los brazos.
- When they need comfort and support I have my young children in my arms.

 
- Tengo cuatro hijos y solo un marido.
- I have four children and only one husband.
 

In the example you asked about, I would say do not use the personal "a".

 
Saludos/Best regards,
moe

Gracias, Moe! - adhegi, Jun 13, 2014

:)Great answer, Moe :) - FELIZ77, Jun 14, 2014

Answer 2

Both are correct.

You see, you need context.

Now, if you tell us what's your native language, it would help us all, to more or less help you.

hahahaha. - chileno, Jun 13, 2014

Answer 3

Native English-speaker but proficient in Spanish (and trying to improve!). I would like to know the best usage when chatting with Spanish-speakers about how many children we have. Thanks.

Welcome to SpanishDict. Could you put that in your profile for future reference? It is something that helps members when they are trying to answer your questions more effectively. Thanks. - rac1, Jun 13, 2014

:) - ian-hill, Jun 13, 2014