Confusing 'Answer' and 'Ask'

You can say 'contestar la pregunta' (answer the question) or 'contestar a la pregunta.' Both are correct, but using 'a' is becoming less common in many regions, especially when answering things directly.

Using 'a' with 'Contestar'

Think of 'contestar' as the verb that completes the communication loop: someone asks, you contestas.

Focus on the Action

Extremely common. This is the standard way to say 'to answer' or 'to reply' in Spanish.

When answering the phone or door, 'contestar' usually takes the object directly: 'contestar el teléfono' (answer the phone), not 'a el teléfono'.

Direct Object Use

Commonly used in specific contexts related to communication devices or entrances.

In this sense, 'contestar' often carries a negative implication of defiance or impudence, even if the words themselves are just a reply.

Implied Tone

Used when describing a child or subordinate speaking back disrespectfully.

Learn the Spanish verb 'contestar' (to answer, to reply, to talk back). Includes full regular AR conjugation tables, usage examples for A1-C2 learners, and common mistakes.

Contestar Meaning, Conjugation & Usage | Inklingo Spanish Dictionary

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Use 'contestaría', 'contestarías', etc., for hypothetical situations ('would answer').

The future tense 'contestaré', 'contestarás', etc., indicates actions that will happen.

Use 'contesta' (tú) and 'conteste' (usted) for direct commands to answer.

Use 'contestaba', 'contestabas', etc., for ongoing or habitual past actions.

Use 'contestara' or 'contestase' for past hypotheticals, wishes, or doubts.

Negative commands use 'no' + present subjunctive, like 'no contestes' (tú) or 'no conteste' (usted).

Use 'contesto', 'contestas', 'contesta' for actions happening now or habitually.

Use 'conteste' (yo/él/ella/usted) and 'contestes' (tú) for wishes, doubts, or influence.

Use 'contesté', 'contestaste', 'contestó' for completed past actions.

contestar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

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