contento
“contento” means “happy” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
happy, content
Also: pleased
📝 In Action
El niño está contento con su nuevo juguete.
A1The boy is happy with his new toy.
Me siento contento de haberte ayudado.
A2I feel pleased/happy to have helped you.
No necesito mucho, estoy contento con lo que tengo.
B1I don't need much, I am content with what I have.
contentment
Also: joy, satisfaction
📝 In Action
El contento de la multitud era visible tras la victoria.
B1The contentment/joy of the crowd was visible after the victory.
Busca el contento en las cosas sencillas.
B2Seek satisfaction/joy in simple things.
I satisfy
Also: I please
📝 In Action
Yo contento a mis clientes con un buen servicio.
B2I satisfy my clients with good service.
No contento a todos, pero me esfuerzo.
C1I don't make everyone happy, but I try hard.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "contento" in Spanish:
content→contentment→happy→i please→i satisfy→joy→pleased→satisfaction→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: contento
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'contento' to describe a female friend?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *contentus*, which was the past tense form of the verb *continēre*, meaning 'to hold or contain.' The meaning evolved from 'contained' to 'self-contained' or 'satisfied with what one has,' leading directly to its modern meaning of 'happy.'
First recorded: Medieval Latin period
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'contento' and 'feliz'?
'Contento' usually means satisfied, pleased, or mildly happy. 'Feliz' implies a deeper, more profound happiness or joy, though in everyday conversation, they are often used interchangeably.
Why do I use 'estar' with 'contento'?
You use 'estar' (which describes temporary conditions or states) because being 'contento' refers to a current emotional state, not a permanent, defining characteristic (which would use 'ser').