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"When" is an adverb which is often translated as "cuándo", and "while" is a conjunction which is often translated as "mientras". Learn more about the difference between "when" and "while" below.
when(
wehn
)An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences (e.g., The cat and the dog slept.).
2. (relative)
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.