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

📅 Published: September 28, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

mientras

conjunction • /[MYEN-tras]/

while

Example:

Léelo mientras esperas.

Read it while you wait.

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🧠 What does mientras mean?

The Spanish word 'mientras' is a conjunction that means 'while' in English. It's used to connect two clauses, showing that two actions happen simultaneously. Think of it as a way to express that one thing is going on during the time that something else is also happening. Sometimes, 'mientras' can also mean 'as long as' or 'provided that', indicating a condition.

📚 Extra examples

  • Mientras yo cocino, tú puedes poner la mesa.
    While I cook, you can set the table.
  • Puedes quedarte aquí mientras quieras.
    You can stay here as long as you want.
  • Mientras no llueva, iremos al parque.
    Provided that it doesn't rain, we'll go to the park.
  • Mientras estudiaba, escuchaba música.
    While I was studying, I was listening to music.
  • Mientras más practiques, mejor hablarás español.
    The more you practice, the better you'll speak Spanish.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'while' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'while' in Spanish is 'mientras'.
How do you pronounce 'mientras' in Spanish?
It's pronounced 'mee-EN-tras', with the stress on the second syllable.
How do you use 'mientras' in a sentence?
Use 'mientras' to connect two clauses, like this: 'Mientras como, veo la televisión' (While I eat, I watch TV).
What is the English translation of 'mientras'?
'Mientras' translates to 'while', 'as long as', or 'provided that' in English.
Does 'mientras' change for gender or number?
No, 'mientras' is invariable. It always stays the same, regardless of the gender or number of the nouns in the sentence.
Is 'mientras' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'mientras' is a very common word and you'll hear it frequently in conversations and see it in writing.
Does 'mientras' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'mientras' doesn't have any slang meanings or double meanings. Its meaning is quite straightforward.
Is 'mientras' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, 'mientras' is used in the same way across both Spain and Latin America. Its meaning and usage remain consistent.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "mientras"

Synonyms: durante, en tanto que, al tiempo que

💡 Did You Know?

Using 'mientras tanto' (meanwhile) can add a bit more emphasis to the simultaneous nature of the two actions. For example, 'Estoy cocinando. Mientras tanto, puedes leer un libro.' (I'm cooking. Meanwhile, you can read a book.)

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