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"Dentro" is an adverb which is often translated as "inside", and "dentro de" is a preposition which is also often translated as "inside". Learn more about the difference between "dentro" and "dentro de" below.
dentro(
dehn
-
troh
)
An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
adverb
a. inside
Los niños están jugando dentro.The children are playing inside.
b. indoors
Tengo que irme dentro por mis alergias.I need to go indoors because of my allergies.
c. in
El gato está allí dentro.The cat's in there.
d. within
Ella carga un secreto pesado dentro.She carries a heavy secret within.
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dentro de(
dehn
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troh
 
deh
)
A preposition is a word that indicates the relationship between a noun and another word (e.g., He ran through the door.).
preposition
a. inside
Mi perro duerme dentro de su jaula.My dog sleeps inside his cage.
b. within
Hay varios restaurantes de comida rápida dentro del centro comercial.There are several fast food restaurants within the mall.
c. in
Puse la carta dentro del buzón para que el cartero la recoja.I placed the letter in the mailbox for the mailman to pick up.
a. in
¡Dentro de una semana, estaré de camino a Sacramento!In one week, I will be on my way to Sacramento!
b. within
El trabajo deberá estar listo dentro del plazo que especifique el profesor.The assignment should be ready within the deadline the teacher specifies.
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