Forgetting the Formal Command

The base verb 'contar' changes its vowel from 'o' to 'ue' in many forms, like 'yo cuento' or 'él cuente.' The 'nosotros' form, 'contamos/contemos,' usually keeps the 'o'.

Stem Change Alert

'Cuente' is the special verb form (subjunctive) used when expressing wishes, doubts, or emotions about counting, or when giving a formal command ('You, count!').

The 'Cuente' Form

While 'contar' means both 'to count' and 'to tell,' the context usually makes the meaning clear (e.g., if numbers are involved, it means 'count').

Counting vs. Telling

Extremely common. Used daily when dealing with numbers or measurements.

When asking someone to tell *you* something, you must often attach the pronoun 'me' to the end of the command form ('Cuénteme') or place it before the conjugated verb ('Quiero que me cuente').

Telling 'To Me'

Using 'cuente' is a polite, formal way to ask someone you respect to share information.

Formal Request

Very common when discussing stories, jokes, or events.

When 'contar' means 'to rely on' or 'to possess,' it must be followed by the preposition 'con' (with). You can't use it alone in this sense.

Required Preposition 'Con'

The phrase 'Cuente conmigo' is one of the most common ways to offer help or assurance in Spanish, equivalent to 'You can count on me.'

Assurance Phrase

Common in conversations about support, trust, and resources.

Learn all meanings of the Spanish verb form 'cuente' (from 'contar'), including its uses as a formal command ('Count!/Tell!'), and its use in the subjunctive mood for counting, telling stories, and relying on others.

cuente

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations