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"Tener que" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to have to", and "tener que ver" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to have to do". Learn more about the difference between "tener que" and "tener que ver" below.
tener que(
teh
-
nehr
keh
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
1. (general)
a. to have to
Tengo que sacar la basura, apesta.I have to take the trash out; it stinks.
Los participantes tienen que llenar el formulario de salud.The participants have to fill out the health form.
b. to have got to
Tienes que decírselo. Solo complicará las cosas si no lo haces.You've got to tell her. It will only complicate things if you don't.
tener que ver(
teh
-
nehr
keh
behr
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
a. to have to do
La delincuencia juvenil tiene que ver con la pobreza y la desigualdad.Juvenile delinquency has to do with poverty and inequality.
b. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
¿Te refieres al dinero? - No, eso no tiene nada que ver.Are you talking about the money? - No, that has nothing to do with it.
La falta de empatía tiene mucho que ver con el problema psicológico de Jorge.The lack of empathy has a lot to do with Jorge's psychological problem.
A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
a. to have to see
Tengo que ver esa película. Oí que es fantástica.I have to see that film. I heard it's fantastic.
b. must see
Tienes que ver el Taj Majal. Es sencillamente maravilloso.You must see the Taj Mahal. It's simply wonderful.
