la cuenta, por favor
/la ˈkwenta poɾ faˈboɾ/word by word
The English phrase "i want the bill" is translated into Spanish as la cuenta, por favor.
While a literal translation of "I want the bill" would be Quiero la cuenta, it is much more natural and polite to use la cuenta, por favor when requesting the bill in a restaurant.
What does it mean word for word?
The word cuenta can mean both "the bill" in a restaurant and "the account" in a banking context.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, it is common to make a writing motion in the air with your hand while saying la cuenta, por favor to signal the waiter.
- The word cuenta comes from the verb contar, which means both 'to count' and 'to tell a story'.
- In some cultures, asking for la cuenta too quickly after finishing a meal can be seen as rude, as it suggests you are rushing the host or staff.
Examples in context
- Mesero, la cuenta, por favor.Waiter, the bill, please.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are finishing their lunch at a cafe.
- DanielSofía, ¿estás lista para irnos?Sofía, are you ready to go?
- SofíaSí, pero primero la cuenta, por favor.Yes, but first the bill, please.
- DanielVoy a llamar al camarero.I am going to call the waiter.
- SofíaGracias, Daniel.Thanks, Daniel.
