tener en cuenta
Lemma Details
Translation: to take into account; to consider; to bear in mind; to keep in mind
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This Spanish phrase combines 'tener' (to have), 'en' (in), and 'cuenta' (account). 'Cuenta' derives from Latin 'computus' meaning calculation or reckoning, related to English 'count' and 'account'. The phrase literally means 'to have in account' and parallels the English expression 'to take into account' both in structure and meaning, reflecting how both languages conceptualize consideration as a form of mental accounting.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 70%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Teniendo en cuenta su experiencia, le ofrecemos el puesto.
Taking into account your experience, we're offering you the position.
Hay que tener en cuenta todos los factores antes de tomar una decisión.
You must consider all factors before making a decision.
Ten en cuenta que mañana es feriado.
Keep in mind that tomorrow is a holiday.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'cuenta' as 'count' - you're counting or accounting for something in your decision-making process.
- Visualize holding ('tener') something in your mental account book ('cuenta').
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is widely used in both casual conversation and formal contexts in Spanish-speaking countries. It's essential in business, academic, and diplomatic settings where consideration of multiple factors is important.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'tener en cuenta' and 'tomar en cuenta' are often used interchangeably, 'tener' emphasizes ongoing consideration while 'tomar' can suggest the initial act of considering something.
Confused word:
Tomé en cuenta sus sugerencias al diseñar el proyecto.
I took his suggestions into account when designing the project.
Notes: Both phrases are correct and widely used across Spanish-speaking regions.
Mnemonic: 'Tener' (to have) suggests ongoing possession of the thought, while 'tomar' (to take) suggests the initial action of grabbing the thought.
Explanation: 'Tener en cuenta' means to consider something, while 'dar cuenta de' means to report on something or to be aware of something.
Confused word:
El informe da cuenta de los avances del proyecto.
The report gives an account of the project's progress.
Notes: The word 'cuenta' appears in both phrases but with different functional meanings.
Mnemonic: 'Dar cuenta' is about giving an account (reporting), while 'tener en cuenta' is about holding something in your account (considering).