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"Meanwhile" is an adverb which is often translated as "mientras tanto", and "while" is a conjunction which is often translated as "mientras". Learn more about the difference between "meanwhile" and "while" below.
meanwhile(
min
-
wayl
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
a. mientras tanto
Alicia said she's on her way. Meanwhile, we can wrap her birthday present.Alicia dijo que viene en camino. Mientras tanto, podemos envolver su regalo de cumpleaños.
b. entretanto
Roger is still getting ready to leave. Meanwhile, let's watch TV.Roger se está preparando para salir. Entretanto, vamos a ver la tele.
a. mientras tanto
It's snowing in Siberia. Meanwhile, in Brazil it's really hot.Está nevando en Siberia. Mientras tanto, en Brasil hace mucho calor.
while(
wayl
)A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences (e.g., The cat and the dog slept.).
1. (during)
a. mientras
I love listening to music while I clean the house.Me encanta escuchar música mientras limpio la casa.
2. (as long as)
a. mientras
You will keep your job while I am the boss.Mientras yo sea el jefe, mantendrás tu trabajo.
3. (although)
a. aunque
While he is a good match, her parents do not like him.Aunque sea un buen partido, a los padres de ella no les gusta.
4. (whereas)
a. mientras que
I love the mountains while my husband prefers the sea.Me encantan las montañas mientras que mi marido prefiere el mar.
