contesta (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Verb.

Phonetic Transcription

/konˈtesta/

Translation Options into English

• Answer
• Respond

Meaning and Usage

"Contesta" is the tú (you, informal) form of the verb "contestar," which means "to answer" or "to respond." It is commonly used in both oral and written Spanish, often in everyday conversational contexts. The verb's usage frequency is relatively high, especially in situations where a prompt response is expected, such as in conversations, phone calls, or when someone asks a question.

Example Sentences

1. Contesta el teléfono, por favor.
   Answer the phone, please.

2. Siempre contesta mis preguntas sin dudar.
   He always answers my questions without hesitation.

3. Si no contesta, voy a dejar un mensaje.
   If he doesn't answer, I will leave a message.

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb "contestar" appears in several idiomatic expressions, often relating to communication and response.

1. Contestar a algo/a alguien
2. Meaning: To answer something/someone.

3. Example: No puedo contestar a esa pregunta sin más información.
   I can't answer that question without more information.

4. Contestar con evasivas

5. Meaning: To respond evasively.

6. Example: Ella siempre contesta con evasivas cuando le pregunto sobre sus planes.
   She always responds evasively when I ask her about her plans.

7. Contestar a la altura

8. Meaning: To respond appropriately or suitably.

9. Example: Debes contestar a la altura si quieres impresionar al jefe.
   You should respond appropriately if you want to impress the boss.

10. No hay respuesta que contestar

11. Meaning: There's no answer to give.
12. Example: Cuando se trata de amor, a veces no hay respuesta que contestar.
    When it comes to love, sometimes there’s no answer to give.

Etymology

The word "contesta" derives from Latin "contestari," which means to call to witness or to respond. This Latin root itself comes from "con-" (with) and "testari" (to bear witness), indicating a relationship between responding and providing evidence or affirmation.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Responde - Replica

Antonyms: - Silencio (silence) - Ignora (ignore)