Spanish Phrase
Tenemos que arreglarlo pronto.
Meaning
This phrase expresses a direct obligation or necessity to repair an object or resolve a specific situation. It utilizes the common 'tener que' structure followed by an infinitive verb to indicate that an action is required.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing a broken item, a technical issue, or a problematic situation that needs a solution. It is suitable for both professional contexts like office repairs and personal contexts like household chores.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tenemosquearreglarlopronto
Tener que + Infinitive
This is the standard formula for 'to have to' do something in Spanish.
Attached Pronouns
The 'lo' at the end of 'arreglarlo' is a direct object pronoun meaning 'it', referring to the masculine object being fixed.
🗨In Conversation
El fregadero está goteando mucho.
The sink is leaking a lot.
Tenemos que arreglarlo pronto.
We have to fix it soon.
✕Common Mistakes
Tenemos arreglarlo pronto.
The word 'que' is mandatory between 'tener' and the infinitive to express obligation.
Tenemos que lo arreglar pronto.
When using an infinitive, the object pronoun 'lo' must be attached to the end of the verb or placed before the conjugated verb 'tenemos'.
↔Alternatives
Hay que arreglarlo pronto.
It must be fixed soon (impersonal).
Debemos solucionarlo pronto.
We must solve it soon.
Cultural Tip
While 'pronto' means soon, the sense of urgency can vary by region. In a business setting, it implies a high priority, but in casual social settings, it might be used more aspirationally. Using 'tenemos que' adds a layer of personal responsibility to the statement.