Example: Para nadar bien, es importante tener tablas en el agua.
Definition
"Tener tablas" is a Spanish expression meaning to have experience and skill in a particular activity, often implying confidence and competence developed over time. For example, in swimming, "tener tablas" means being well-practiced and comfortable in the water.
Translations
to be experienced
veel ervaring hebben
tenir taules
avoir de la bouteille
Erfahrung haben
Etymology
The phrase "tener tablas" literally means "to have boards" in Spanish. It likely originated from maritime or carpentry contexts where having sturdy boards symbolized readiness and reliability. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to denote possessing experience and skill. Did you know? The use of 'tablas' relates to the idea of a solid foundation, much like a board supports a structure.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Tener tablas" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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to be experienced