Lael logo

lento means slow — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: August 26, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

lento

adjective • /[LEN-toh]/

slow

Example:

El tráfico está muy lento hoy.

The traffic is very slow today.

🔍 See more essential spanish words

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store

🧠 What does lento mean?

Lento is a Spanish adjective that means "slow." It describes something that moves, happens, or progresses at a low speed. It can refer to physical movement, like a slow car or a slow walker, or to more abstract concepts, like a slow process or a slow internet connection. It's a very common and versatile word in everyday Spanish.

📚 Extra examples

  • El servicio en el restaurante fue muy lento.
    The service at the restaurant was very slow.
  • Ella habla lento para que la entendamos.
    She speaks slowly so that we understand her.
  • La música lenta me relaja.
    Slow music relaxes me.
  • El tráfico está lento hoy.
    The traffic is slow today.
  • El proceso de aprendizaje es lento pero gratificante.
    The learning process is slow but rewarding.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'slow' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'slow' in Spanish is 'lento.'
How do you pronounce 'lento' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'LEN-toh,' with the stress on the first syllable.
How do you use 'lento' in a sentence?
Here are a few examples: 'El coche es lento' (The car is slow), 'Camina lento' (Walk slowly), 'La película era un poco lenta' (The movie was a bit slow).
What is the English translation of 'lento'?
'Lento' translates to 'slow' in English.
Does 'lento' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'lento' changes to agree with the noun it describes. For a feminine noun, use 'lenta' (e.g., 'la tortuga lenta' - the slow turtle). For plural nouns, use 'lentos' (masculine) or 'lentas' (feminine). For example: 'Los coches son lentos' (The cars are slow), 'Las bicicletas son lentas' (The bicycles are slow).
Is 'lento' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'lento' is a very common and frequently used word in everyday conversations.
Does 'lento' have slang or double meanings?
While 'lento' generally means 'slow,' it can sometimes be used informally to describe someone as 'dim-witted' or 'not very bright,' but this is less common than its primary meaning. It's important to consider the context to understand the intended meaning.
Is 'lento' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'lento' are generally consistent across Spain and Latin America. There might be slight regional variations in pronunciation, but the core meaning remains the same.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "lento"

Synonyms: despacio, pausado, tranquilo
Opposites: rápido, veloz, ligero

💡 Did You Know?

In music, 'lento' indicates a slow tempo, typically between 40-60 beats per minute. This makes it perfect for creating a calm and reflective mood.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store