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entonces means then / so — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: September 30, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

entonces

conjunction • /[en-TON-ses]/

then / so

Example:

Entonces, ¿qué hacemos ahora?

So, what do we do now?

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🧠 What does entonces mean?

Entonces is a very common Spanish word that generally translates to "then" or "so" in English. It's used to connect ideas, show cause and effect, or indicate a sequence of events. Think of it as a handy way to link different parts of your sentences and make your Spanish flow more naturally.

📚 Extra examples

  • Si no te gusta el café, entonces prueba el té.
    If you don't like coffee, then try the tea.
  • Estudié mucho, entonces aprobé el examen.
    I studied a lot, so I passed the exam.
  • ¿Entonces qué vamos a hacer?
    So what are we going to do?
  • Primero vamos al cine, y entonces cenamos.
    First we'll go to the cinema, and then we'll have dinner.
  • Entonces, ¿estás de acuerdo?
    So, do you agree?

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'then / so' in Spanish?
The most common translation of 'then' and 'so' in Spanish is 'entonces'.
How do you pronounce 'entonces' in Spanish?
It's pronounced ehn-TOHN-sehs. The stress falls on the second syllable (TON). Listen to a native speaker say it to perfect your pronunciation!
How do you use 'entonces' in a sentence?
You can use 'entonces' to connect clauses, like 'If it rains, then we'll stay inside.' (Si llueve, entonces nos quedaremos adentro.) Or to show a consequence, like 'I studied hard, so I passed the test.' (Estudié mucho, entonces aprobé el examen.) It can also be used at the beginning of a sentence to mean 'So...' like 'So, what are we doing now?' (Entonces, ¿qué hacemos ahora?)
What is the English translation of 'entonces'?
It generally translates to 'then' or 'so' in English, depending on the context.
Does 'entonces' change for gender or number?
No, 'entonces' is an adverb, so it doesn't change its form.
Is 'entonces' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, it's extremely common! You'll hear it and use it all the time.
Does 'entonces' have slang or double meanings?
Not really. It's a pretty straightforward word. In some contexts, it can be used slightly sarcastically, but its core meaning remains the same.
Is 'entonces' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
Not significantly. Its meaning and usage are consistent across Spanish-speaking regions.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "entonces"

Synonyms: luego, pues, por lo tanto, así que

💡 Did You Know?

Sometimes, 'entonces' can be used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a question or conclusion, similar to saying 'So...' in English.

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