tener mariposas
to have butterflies (in your stomach)
Intermediate Phrase
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Pronunciation
/teˈneɾ maɾiˈposas/
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Cultural Note
The full expression is 'tener mariposas en el estómago,' identical in meaning to the English 'butterflies in your stomach.' It is widely used across all Spanish-speaking countries to describe the nervous excitement of new romance. Young people often shorten it to simply 'me da mariposas.'
📝 Example Sentences
Cada vez que lo veo tengo mariposas en el estómago.
Every time I see him I get butterflies in my stomach.
Si no te da mariposas, no vale la pena.
If it doesn't give you butterflies, it's not worth it.