Question 1

Why does this sentence use tengo (I have) when the English translation says "I am"?

Accepted Answer

In Spanish, feelings like being afraid, cold, hot, or hungry are expressed using the verb tener (to have) plus a noun. So instead of saying "I am afraid," Spanish speakers literally say "I have fear" (tengo miedo). Since miedo is a noun (fear), it doesn't change to match your gender like an adjective would.

Question 2

Where is the word for "I" (yo) in this sentence?

Accepted Answer

In Spanish, the pronoun yo (I) is often left out. The verb form tengo (I have) already tells us exactly who is doing the action, so saying yo tengo is optional. It is usually skipped unless you want to add emphasis.

Question 3

Does siempre always go at the beginning of the sentence?

Accepted Answer

Just like in English where we usually put "always" before the main verb, Spanish typically places adverbs of frequency like siempre right before the verb. It sounds very natural here at the start of the sentence.

Question 4

How do I pronounce hospital? Is it just like in English?

Accepted Answer

It looks the same, but it sounds a bit different! First, the letter "h" is completely silent in Spanish, so you start right with the "o" sound. Second, the vocal stress goes on the very last syllable: os-pi-TAL.

Siempre tengo miedo en el hospital.

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