menos
less · few
Se usa para indicar una cantidad o número que es inferior a otro.
Definition & meaning
The word menos is primarily used in Spanish to indicate a smaller quantity, degree, or intensity. Its meanings include:
- Less / Fewer: Used to denote a lower amount. For example, "Tengo menos dinero" (I have less money).
- Minus: Used in mathematical operations to indicate subtraction. For example, "Diez menos cinco es cinco" (Ten minus five is five).
- Except / But: Used to exclude something or someone from a group. For example, "Todos vinieron menos él" (Everyone came except him).
- Time notation: Used to tell time when referring to minutes before the hour. For example, "Las tres menos cuarto" (A quarter to three).
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It functions as an adverb, adjective, or preposition depending on the context. As an adjective, it is invariable in gender but can change to "menos" (plural) when used in specific structures like "los menos" (the minority).
- Word origin: It derives from the Latin word minus, which also means "less."
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
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Examples
Quiero menos azúcar en mi café.adjective
I want less sugar in my coffee.
Tengo menos tiempo para estudiar hoy.adjective
I have less time to study today.
Hay menos gente en el parque hoy.adjective
There are fewer people in the park today.
Hay menos manzanas en la mesa.adjective
There are fewer apples on the table.
María tiene menos dinero que Juan.adjective
María has less money than Juan.
Él tiene menos libros que su hermana.adjective
He has fewer books than his sister.
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