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"Mientras" is a conjunction which is often translated as "while", and "mientras tanto" is a phrase which is often translated as "meanwhile". Learn more about the difference between "mientras" and "mientras tanto" below.
mientras(
myehn
-
trahs
)A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences (e.g., The cat and the dog slept.).
a. as long as (followed by verb in subjunctive)
Mientras trabaje aquí, nunca podré tomarme unas vacaciones en condiciones.As long as I work here, I'll never manage to take a proper vacation.
3. (if)
a. as long as (followed by verb in subjunctive)
Mientras termines los deberes a tiempo, me da igual que escuches música o no.As long as you finish your homework on time, I don't mind if you listen to music.
An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
a. meanwhile
Tu hermana va a recoger su cuarto. Mientras, tú puedes quitar el polvo del salón.Your sister is going to clean up her room. Meanwhile, you can dust the living room.
b. in the meantime
Saca al perro; mientras, puedo trapear el piso de la cocina.Take the dog out. I can mop the kitchen floor in the meantime.
mientras tanto(
myehn
-
trahs
tahn
-
toh
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
a. meanwhile
Estoy aquí lavando los trastes; mientras tanto, tú estás muy cómoda viendo la tele.Here I am washing the dishes. Meanwhile, you're nice and comfy watching TV.
b. in the meantime
Ve a comprar el vino para la cena; mientras tanto, pondré la mesa.Go buy the wine for the dinner party. In the meantime, I'll set the table.
