Quiero estar contigo
/kjeɾo estaɾ kontiɡo/from spelling rules
The Spanish phrase for "I wanna be with you" is Quiero estar contigo.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Quiero (I want), estar (to be/to stay) and contigo (with you).
Which one should you use?
The verb estar is used here rather than ser because it refers to being present or accompanying someone, rather than a permanent characteristic.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the phrase Quiero andar contigo. is used to mean "I want to be with you".
How does it change in a sentence?
English speakers often mistakenly say con ti instead of the correct contracted form contigo.
How do you pronounce it?
/kjeɾo estaɾ kontiɡo/
Did you know?
- The verb estar shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'stand', which explains why it relates to positions and states of being.
- In some romantic contexts, saying Quiero estar contigo can be interpreted as a request to move in together rather than just a desire for companionship.
- While Quiero estar contigo is romantic, adding the word siempre ('always') transforms it into a common trope in Spanish-language soap operas and boleros.
Examples in context
- Quiero estar contigo siempre.I want to be with you always.
- No importa el lugar, quiero estar contigo.It doesn't matter the place, I want to be with you.
- Solo quiero estar contigo hoy.I only want to be with you today.
Example conversation
Lucía and Javier are having a romantic moment in a park.
- LucíaJavier, quiero estar contigo.Javier, I want to be with you.
- JavierY yo quiero estar contigo, Lucía.And I want to be with you, Lucía.
- Lucía¿De verdad lo dices?Do you really mean it?
- JavierSí, lo digo de corazón.Yes, I say it from my heart.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries contigo, estar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
