Forgetting the Stem Change

In the present tense, the 'e' in the stem of 'mentir' changes to 'ie' (m**ie**nto, m**ie**ntes), except for the 'nosotros' and 'vosotros' forms (mentimos, mentís).

The 'E to IE' Change

When you use 'mientes' in the present subjunctive (mientas), it usually follows a verb expressing doubt, denial, or emotion, like 'Dudo que mientas' (I doubt that you lie).

Subjunctive Form

Using '¡Mientes!' is a very direct and often confrontational way to accuse someone of lying. Be careful how you use it!

Direct Accusation

Extremely common. This is the 'tú' form of the verb 'mentir' (to lie), used often in daily conversation and disagreements.

Mixing the Noun and Verb

This noun form is almost always encountered as part of the fixed phrase 'tener en mientes', meaning 'to remember' or 'to consider'. Do not try to use it as a standalone plural noun for 'mind' (use 'mentes').

Fixed Phrase Usage

If you simply want to say 'minds' (plural of 'mind'), use the regular plural form: 'mentes', not 'mientes'. 'Mientes' is reserved for the formal idiom.

Choose 'Mentes' for Plural

Very rare. Used almost exclusively in the formal, set phrase 'tener en mientes'.

Comprehensive guide to the Spanish word 'mientes,' including its primary use as the 'tú' conjugation of the verb 'mentir' (to lie), and its formal use in the idiom 'tener en mientes' (to bear in mind). Includes full verb tables.

mientes

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations