contar hasta diez
/kontaɾ asta djeθ/from spelling rules
To count to ten in Spanish is contar hasta diez.
This phrase is used to describe the act of saying the numbers from one to ten in order. Like in English, it can be used literally for counting or figuratively to suggest someone take a moment to calm down before reacting.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb contar (to count) and the prepositional phrase hasta diez (until ten).
How does it change in a sentence?
While contar hasta diez is the infinitive form, it changes when giving commands. If you are giving a direct command to one person informally, use the imperative cuenta hasta diez. When giving a command to a group of people, use the plural imperative form cuenten hasta diez.
Did you know?
- The word contar in Spanish has a double meaning and can be used to tell a story as well as to count numbers.
- While contar hasta diez is used for calming down, Spanish speakers also use contar to say they are relying on someone, as in cuento contigo.
- The word hasta may have roots in Arabic, specifically from the word ḥattā, which also means 'until'.
Examples in context
- El niño sabe contar hasta diez.The boy can count to ten.This sentence shows a child's ability to use contar hasta diez.Tatoeba #867048 by ildefonk, translation #47537 by CK
- ¿Sabes contar hasta diez en francés?Do you know how to count to ten in French?This sentence asks about the ability to use contar hasta diez in a different language.Tatoeba #4387702 by saverius, translation #4384263 by CK
- Cuando tenías dos años, sabías contar hasta diez.When you were two years old, you could count to ten.This sentence refers to someone's past ability to use contar hasta diez.Tatoeba #1825652 by hayastan, translation #1078142 by keira_n
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier is feeling stressed and Elena is trying to help him relax.
- JavierEstoy muy nervioso por el examen.I am very nervous about the exam.
- ElenaTranquilízate y trata de contar hasta diez.Calm down and try to count to ten.
- JavierTienes razón, voy a intentarlo ahora.You are right, I am going to try it now.
- ElenaMuy bien, respira profundo mientras lo haces.Very good, breathe deeply while you do it.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries contar, diez, hasta, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
