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"On the contrary" is a phrase which is often translated as "al contrario", and "while" is a conjunction which is often translated as "mientras". Learn more about the difference between "on the contrary" and "while" below.
on the contrary(
an
thuh
kan
-
treh
-
ri
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
1. (general)
a. al contrario
Marissa is not angry with Scott. On the contrary, they had a great time this weekend.Marissa no está enojada con Scott. Al contrario, se divirtieron mucho este fin de semana.
b. por el contrario
French toast isn't very difficult to make at home. On the contrary, it's very easy.Tostada francesa no es difícil de hacer en casa. Por el contrario, es muy fácil.
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.
