consiste
/kon-SEES-teh/
consists of
A bowl of fruit 'consiste' (consists of) different types of fruit.
consiste(verb)
consists of
?describing components or parts
is made up of
?describing materials or ingredients
📝 In Action
Mi desayuno consiste en fruta y café.
A1My breakfast consists of fruit and coffee.
El juego consiste en atrapar la pelota.
A2The game consists of catching the ball.
💡 Grammar Points
The 'En' Rule
Unlike English where we say 'consists OF', in Spanish you must use the word 'en' (in). Always say 'consiste en'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't use 'de'
Mistake: "Consiste de tres partes."
Correction: Consiste en tres partes. Even though 'de' means 'of', this specific verb only works with 'en'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Defining Games or Tasks
Use 'consiste en' followed by a verb ending in -ar, -er, or -ir to explain how to do something, like: 'El plan consiste en viajar' (The plan is to travel).
The solution to a problem often 'consiste' (lies in) finding the right key.
consiste(verb)
lies in
?explaining the essence or core reason
is about
?the main point of a concept
📝 In Action
La felicidad consiste en disfrutar las pequeñas cosas.
B1Happiness lies in enjoying the little things.
⭐ Usage Tips
Abstract Meanings
Use this to explain deep concepts or the 'secret' to something, rather than just physical ingredients.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: consiste
Question 1 of 2
Which word always follows 'consiste' when you want to say 'it consists of'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'consiste' always a verb?
Yes, 'consiste' is a form of the verb 'consistir'. It specifically means 'he, she, or it consists'.
Can I use 'consiste' to describe food recipes?
Absolutely! It's perfect for listing ingredients. For example: 'La salsa consiste en tomate y ajo'.