Inklingo

How to Say "was relating" in Spanish

English → Spanish

contaba

kohn-TAH-bah/konˈtaba/

verbA2Informal
Use 'contaba' when 'was relating' implies a more informal or habitual act of storytelling, like telling a story, a joke, or recounting an event in a familiar way.
An adult sitting on a stool, leaning forward and speaking enthusiastically to two children sitting on the floor. Simple, colorful lines emanate from the adult's mouth, illustrating the narrative.

Examples

El abuelo contaba historias de su juventud.

The grandfather used to tell stories from his youth.

El profesor contaba chistes malos todos los lunes.

The professor used to tell bad jokes every Monday.

¿Qué te contaba tu hermana sobre su viaje?

What was your sister telling you about her trip?

Telling vs. Counting

In Spanish, the same verb, 'contar,' means both 'to count' and 'to tell.' Context (like using 'cuento' or 'historia') usually makes the meaning clear.

refería

verbB2Formal
Use 'refería' when 'was relating' signifies a more formal or detailed recounting of facts, events, or information, often in a reportorial or historical context.

Examples

El historiador refería los eventos de la guerra con gran detalle.

The historian used to relate the events of the war in great detail.

Informal vs. Formal Storytelling

Learners often confuse 'contaba' and 'refería' by not considering the register. 'Contaba' is generally for casual, everyday storytelling, while 'refería' is for more formal or objective reporting of facts.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.