verb

contar

tell · count

Decir los números en orden o relatar algo que ha sucedido.

Definition & meaning

The verb contar has several distinct meanings depending on the context in which it is used:

To count: The most literal meaning is to calculate the sum of items or to name numbers in order. For example, "contar del uno al diez" means to count from one to ten.
To tell or narrate: It is used when someone relates a story, an anecdote, or a secret. In this context, it is similar to the English word "recount."
To count on or rely on: When used with the preposition "con," it means to have something available or to trust someone. For example, "puedes contar conmigo" means you can count on me.
To matter or be valid: It can also mean that something has value or importance in a specific situation, such as "este punto no cuenta" meaning this point does not count.

Grammar & Word origin

Contar is a first-conjugation verb ending in -ar. It is an irregular verb, specifically a stem-changing verb where the "o" changes to "ue" in the present indicative, present subjunctive, and imperative moods for all persons except "nosotros" and "vosotros." For example, "yo cuento" (I count/tell).

The word originates from the Latin verb computare, which is a combination of the prefix "com-" (together) and "putare" (to settle, prune, or reckon). This Latin root is also the origin of the English word "compute."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms For the sense of counting numbers: enumerar or calcular. For the sense of telling a story: narrar, relatar, referir, or decir. For the sense of relying on: fiarse or confiar.

Antonyms For the sense of telling: callar, silenciar, or ocultar. For the sense of counting: descontar (though this usually means to discount or subtract). For the sense of importance: ignorar or omitir.