minuto (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Minuto is a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/miˈnuto/

Translation Options into English

• Minute (as in 60 seconds)
• Minute (as in a short amount of time)

Meaning and Usage

Minuto refers to a unit of time that is equal to 60 seconds. It is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, often to denote short durations or to specify times in scheduling and conversations regarding time management. The term is widely used in everyday conversations, making it a frequent part of the Spanish language.

Example Sentences

1. Por favor, espera un minuto.
   (Please wait a minute.)

2. La reunión comenzará en cinco minutos.
   (The meeting will start in five minutes.)

Idiomatic Expressions

The word minuto is often used in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, which help convey specific contexts or cultural nuances. Here are some instances:

1. Cada minuto cuenta.
   (Every minute counts.)
   This expression emphasizes the importance of time and promptness in certain situations.

2. A cada minuto.
   (Every minute.)
   Used to indicate that something happens very frequently or consistently.

3. En un abrir y cerrar de minutos.
   (In a blink of an eye.)
   This phrase is similar to the English expression "in a blink of an eye," indicating something that happens very quickly.

4. Minuto a minuto.
   (Minute by minute.)
   This expression describes a situation that is changing continuously, often used in contexts of tension or excitement.

5. Pasar los minutos.
   (To pass the minutes.)
   This idiom is used to describe the act of waiting or spending time, often in a tedious manner.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. Cada minuto cuenta, así que no llegues tarde.
   (Every minute counts, so don’t be late.)

2. La situación se complicaba minuto a minuto.
   (The situation was getting complicated minute by minute.)

3. Pasamos los minutos esperando el autobús.
   (We spent the minutes waiting for the bus.)

Etymology

The word minuto comes from the Latin minutus, which means "small" or "minute." The term reflects the idea of a small division of time, aligning with its function in measuring time.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - instante (instant) - momento (moment)

Antonyms: - hora (hour) - día (day)

This comprehensive information provides an overview of the word minuto, including its meanings, usage, idiomatic expressions, and relevant linguistic details.