Spanish Phrase
Ten tu bolso cerca.
Meaning
A direct, friendly command telling someone to keep their bag close to them, usually for safety. It can be used as a reminder or a quick piece of advice in crowded environments.
When to use
Use this phrase when you see a friend or a stranger in a busy market, on a bus, in a concert hall, or any place where pickpockets might be active. It works well as a casual, caring warning.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Tentubolsocerca
Imperative affirmative (tú)
Use the base form of the verb without the final -r; for 'tener' the tú imperative is 'ten'.
Possessive adjective
'tu' (without accent) modifies a noun and agrees in gender and number; it means 'your'.
Adverb placement
Adverbs of place like 'cerca' normally follow the noun they modify.
🗨In Conversation
Ten tu bolso cerca.
Keep your bag close.
¡Gracias! Lo haré.
Thanks! I will.
✕Common Mistakes
Tienes tu bolso cerca.
Use the imperative 'ten' instead of the present tense 'tienes' when giving a command.
Ten tu bolso cerca de ti.
The adverb 'cerca' already implies proximity; adding 'de ti' is redundant in this command.
Ten tú bolso cerca.
The possessive adjective is 'tu' (no accent). 'tú' with an accent means the pronoun 'you'.
↔Alternatives
Mantén tu bolso cerca.
Keep your bag close.
No dejes tu bolso sin vigilancia.
Don't leave your bag unattended.
Cuida tu bolso.
Take care of your bag.
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking cities, especially tourist hotspots, pickpocketing is a common concern. Locals often keep their bags in front of them or use a cross‑body style. Saying 'Ten tu bolso cerca' is not only polite but also shows you care about the other person's safety. In formal settings you might soften the command with 'por favor' or use the more polite 'mantenga' for usted.