Confusing Subjunctive and Indicative

The form 'cueste' is used to talk about the price when you express a wish, a doubt, or a desire, instead of stating the price as a simple fact (which would use 'cuesta').

The Subjunctive Form

'Cueste' is also the formal 'usted' command form: 'Dígame cuánto cueste' (Tell me how much it costs).

Formal Commands

Look for phrases like 'Espero que...' (I hope that...), 'Ojalá que...' (Hopefully...), or 'No creo que...' (I don't think that...)—these almost always require 'cueste'.

Trigger Phrases

Extremely common, used frequently when discussing prices, shopping, and financial possibilities.

Using the wrong preposition

When 'costar' means 'to be difficult,' it works like the verb 'gustar.' You use 'cueste' to express that the effort is uncertain or conditional: 'Aunque me cueste...' (Even though it is hard for me...).

Costar as 'To Be Hard'

The phrase 'cueste lo que cueste' is a powerful way to show commitment and determination, perfect for formal speeches or strong promises.

Expressing Determination

Commonly used in figurative expressions related to effort, difficulty, and commitment.

'Cueste' is a form of the verb 'costar' (to cost/to take effort). Learn its use in the present subjunctive for expressing wishes, doubts, and the famous idiom 'cueste lo que cueste' (whatever it takes).

cueste

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

subjunctive

imperfect

present

imperative

affirmative

negative

indicative

imperfect

conditional

present

preterite

future

Practice Conjugations