Spanish Phrase
¿Tienes un boli?
Meaning
This informal question asks whether the listener possesses a pen. It’s the everyday way to request a writing instrument when you need one quickly.
When to use
Use it in casual settings—classrooms, offices, or among friends—when you address someone with the familiar 'tú' form. Avoid it in formal situations where you would use '¿Tiene usted un bolígrafo?'
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Tienesunboli?
Tener (present, tú)
The verb 'tener' means 'to have'. In the present tense for 'tú' it becomes 'tienes'.
Indefinite article 'un'
Use 'un' before masculine singular nouns to mean 'a' or 'an'.
Colloquial noun 'boli'
'Boli' is a short, informal form of 'bolígrafo' (pen) used in many Latin American countries.
Question formation
Spanish questions are marked by an opening (¿) and closing (?) question mark; word order can stay the same as a statement.
🗨In Conversation
¿Tienes un boli?
Do you have a pen?
Sí, aquí tienes. ¿Para qué lo necesitas?
Yes, here you go. What do you need it for?
✕Common Mistakes
¿Tiene un boli?
When speaking formally you should use 'tiene' (usted) instead of 'tienes' (tú).
¿Tienes un boli?
In Spain 'boli' is rarely used; 'pluma' or 'bolígrafo' is preferred.
↔Alternatives
¿Tienes un bolígrafo?
Do you have a pen?
¿Me prestas un bolígrafo?
Can you lend me a pen?
¿Tienes un lápiz?
Do you have a pencil?
Cultural Tip
In Spain people often say 'pluma' for a pen, while in many Latin American countries 'boli' or 'lapicero' is more common. Remember that 'tener' expresses ownership; if you want to ask if a pen is available in a room, you would use 'hay' (e.g., '¿Hay un boli?'). Also, keep the informal tone by using 'tú' unless you need the formal 'usted' form.