Miéntras (en. While)

/ˈmjentas/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish

adverb

It is used to signal that one action occurs simultaneously with another.

While he studies, she listens to music.

Mientas él estudia, ella escucha música.

Expresses a condition or temporary circumstance.

You can go to the movies, as long as you don’t arrive late.

Puedes ir al cine, mientras que no llegue tarde.

It is used to refer to the duration of a situation.

While there is hope, don’t give up.

Mientras haya esperanza, no te rindas.

From Latin 'mentre', which has transformed in the Spanish language.

in the meantime

Indicates an action that takes place within the interval of another.

mientras tanto

the more... the more...

Indicates that as one thing increases, another does as well.

mientras más

as long as there are

Refers to something that will remain as long as another thing is present.

mientras existan

while

Indicates a relationship of simultaneity between two actions.

mientras que

the more...

Expresses a growing comparison.

mientras más

It is used to refer to something being done at a specific moment.

I am watching the series while you do your homework.

Estoy mirando la serie, mientras que tú haces tus tareas.

It can denote the time needed for something.

Go for a walk while dinner is being made.

Sal a caminar mientras se hace la cena.