Spanish Phrase
¿Tienes hermanos?
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to ask someone if they have any brothers or sisters. In Spanish, the masculine plural 'hermanos' acts as a collective term for siblings of any gender. It is a basic but essential question for building rapport and learning about someone's family.
When to use
Use this during initial introductions or casual small talk when the topic of family arises. It is appropriate for both social gatherings and getting to know colleagues in a friendly environment.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Tieneshermanos?
Tener (tienes)
The verb 'tener' means 'to have'. 'Tienes' is the informal 'you' form in the present tense.
Gender Neutral Plural
In Spanish, the masculine plural form is used to refer to a group containing both males and females.
🗨In Conversation
¿Tienes hermanos?
Do you have siblings?
Sí, tengo dos hermanos y una hermana.
Yes, I have two brothers and one sister.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Tienes hermanos o hermanas?
While technically correct, it sounds redundant because 'hermanos' already encompasses both genders.
¿Tú tienes hermanos?
Spanish often drops the subject pronoun 'tú' as the verb ending 'es' already indicates the subject is 'you'.
↔Alternatives
¿Eres hijo único?
Are you an only child?
¿Cuántos hermanos tienes?
How many siblings do you have?
Cultural Tip
Family is a cornerstone of culture in Spanish-speaking countries, and asking about siblings is a common way to show genuine interest in someone's life. Note that if someone has only sisters, they will answer with 'hermanas', but the question remains 'hermanos' unless you specifically know they only have sisters.