atentos
“atentos” means “attentive” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
attentive
Also: watchful, mindful
📝 In Action
Los niños están muy atentos a la historia.
A1The children are very attentive to the story.
Por favor, manténganse atentos a las señales.
A2Please, stay watchful for the signs.
Estamos atentos a cualquier cambio en el plan.
B1We are mindful of any changes in the plan.
polite
Also: courteous, thoughtful
📝 In Action
Fueron muy atentos con nosotros durante la visita.
B1They were very thoughtful toward us during the visit.
Sus hijos son chicos muy atentos.
A2Their sons are very polite boys.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "atentos" in Spanish:
watchful→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: atentos
Question 1 of 2
If you want to say a group of mixed students are paying attention to the teacher right now, you would say:
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'attentus,' which literally means 'stretched toward.' Imagine your ears or mind stretching toward someone to hear them better!
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'atentos' only refer to men?
Not necessarily! In Spanish, the masculine plural 'atentos' is used for a group of men OR a mixed group of men and women. Use 'atentas' only if the group is 100% female.
What is the difference between 'ser atentos' and 'estar atentos'?
'Ser atentos' means the people are generally polite and well-mannered. 'Estar atentos' means they are focusing or listening to something specific at this moment.