contenta
“contenta” means “happy” in Spanish (feeling joy or pleasure).
happy, content
Also: pleased
📝 In Action
Mi hermana está muy contenta con su nuevo trabajo.
A1My sister is very happy with her new job.
¿Estás contenta con el resultado del examen?
A2Are you pleased/content with the exam result? (Addressing a female)
La perrita de mi vecina siempre parece contenta cuando jugamos.
A2My neighbor's dog (female) always seems happy when we play.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: contenta
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'contenta'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *contentus*, which meant 'held together' or 'contained,' and by extension, 'satisfied' or 'calm' because one had everything needed within oneself.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'contenta' and 'feliz'?
'Contenta' (or 'contento') means happy, satisfied, or pleased, often in a calm way. 'Feliz' also means happy, but it is often used for deeper, more lasting joy (like 'happy birthday' or 'happy marriage'). However, in everyday conversation, they are often interchangeable.
Why do I use 'estar' with 'contenta'?
You use 'estar' because happiness is considered a temporary, changeable state or feeling. You might be happy now, but sad later. If you were describing a permanent characteristic, you would use 'ser', but feelings usually require 'estar'.