Spanish Phrase
¿Tienes tiempo?
Meaning
Literally, “Do you have time?” It is the most common way to ask if someone is free or available for a short conversation, a task, or an activity.
When to use
Use this informal question with friends, classmates, or colleagues you know well. In a formal setting, switch to the third‑person form *¿Tiene tiempo?* or add a polite phrase such as *por favor*.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Tienestiempo?
Tienes (present of tener)
Second‑person singular present of the verb *tener* (to have). Use it for informal 'you'.
tiempo (noun)
A masculine singular noun meaning 'time' or 'a moment'.
Question marks
Spanish uses an opening (¿) and closing (?) question mark; both are required.
🗨In Conversation
¿Tienes tiempo?
Do you have a moment?
Sí, ¿qué necesitas?
Yes, what do you need?
✕Common Mistakes
¿Tienes tiempo? (to a boss or older stranger)
Use *tiene* for formal 'you' (usted) or when speaking to someone you don't know well.
¿Tienes el tiempo?
Do not add an article unless you mean a specific amount of time (e.g., *¿Tienes tiempo libre?*).
Tienes tiempo?
Both opening and closing question marks are required in Spanish.
↔Alternatives
¿Tienes un momento?
Do you have a moment?
¿Estás libre?
Are you free?
¿Puedes dedicarme unos minutos?
Can you spare a few minutes?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries, asking *¿Tienes tiempo?* is perfectly polite, but adding *por favor* or using the formal *¿Tiene tiempo?* shows extra respect, especially with strangers, elders, or in a business context. Also, be aware that in Argentina and Uruguay the informal *vos* form is used, so you would hear *¿Tenés tiempo?* instead of *¿Tienes tiempo?*.