Differences between DECIR, CONTAR, HABLAR
With these verbs we communicate actions related to communication. In this Spanish lesson, we tell you the main differences.
Verb Hablar
1. The ability to speak.
Ejemplo: – Me duele la garganta. Casi no puedo hablar.
2. Talk to someone
Ejemplos: – Mañana hablamos, ¿vale?
– He hablado con tu profesor de tus notas.
*Warning: Note that “hablar” is an intransitive verb, that is, it doesn’t need a “objeto directo”. The complements go with prepositions (see example number 2).
Verb Decir
1. ” To give an opinion “, ” to express something with words “
Ejemplo: – Mis amigos (me) dicen que haga un curso de español
– ¿Perdona, qué (me) dices?
2. Common expressions to express surprise and interest: “¡No me digas!” “¡Qué me dices!”
*Warning: “decir” is a transitive verb, that is, it needs a “objeto directo” in the sentence (underlined part). In the first sense (see example number 1), the verb is usually used as a pronominal verb.
Verb Contar
1. Numbering:
Ejemplo: – Vamos a jugar. Escóndete donde puedas. Contaré hasta tres: uno, dos… ¡y tres!
2. Tell something.
Ejemplo: – ¿Te he contado lo que me pasó ayer en el supermercado?
– ¡No, cuéntamelo!
Now you know how to: decir, contar and hablar in Spanish. Aren’t you happy? : D
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