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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/konˈtestaɾ/

Translation Options into English

1. To answer
2. To respond
3. To reply

Meaning and Usage

The verb "contestar" primarily means to respond or give an answer to a question or request. It is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, making it a versatile term in the Spanish language. Its frequency of use is high, as it is fundamental in everyday communication.

In general conversations, "contestar" may refer to answering questions in a casual context, whereas in legal contexts, it may relate to providing formal responses to allegations or inquiries.

Example Sentences

1. "Ella siempre contesta sus correos rápidamente."
   "She always answers her emails quickly."

2. "¿Puedes contestar esta pregunta, por favor?"
   "Can you answer this question, please?"

3. "El abogado necesita contestar las objeciones durante el juicio."
   "The lawyer needs to respond to the objections during the trial."

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb "contestar" is often found in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish that highlight the nuances of responding or reacting in different contexts.

1. "Contestar a la altura"
   "To respond appropriately."
   "En una reunión formal, es importante contestar a la altura."
   "In a formal meeting, it is important to respond appropriately."

2. "Contestar de inmediato"
   "To answer immediately."
   "Si tienes dudas, contesta de inmediato para aclararlas."
   "If you have doubts, answer immediately to clarify them."

3. "No conteste, hágalo por su cuenta"
   "Don't respond, do it on your own."
   "A veces es mejor no contestar, hágalo por su cuenta."
   "Sometimes it's better not to respond, do it on your own."

4. "Contestar con ironía"
   "To answer ironically."
   "Cuando le preguntaron si estaba listo, contestó con ironía."
   "When asked if he was ready, he answered ironically."

5. "Contestar a la provocación"
   "To respond to a provocation."
   "Si te provocan, no siempre es mejor contestar a la provocación."
   "If they provoke you, it’s not always better to respond to the provocation."

Etymology

The verb "contestar" originates from the Latin word "contestari", which means to bear witness or to call upon. This reflects the evolution of the word to imply answering or responding, as it carries connotations of engaging in dialogue or discourse.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Responder - Réplica - Contestación (noun form)

Antonyms: - Ignorar (to ignore) - Callar (to keep quiet)

This comprehensive overview of the word "contestar" highlights its importance and versatility in the Spanish language, covering usage in different contexts and providing examples and idiomatic expressions.