lenta
“lenta” means “slow” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
slow, sluggish
Also: gradual
📝 In Action
Esta computadora es muy lenta, necesito una nueva.
A1This computer is very slow, I need a new one.
La tortuga es un animal de marcha lenta.
A2The turtle is an animal with a slow pace.
La recuperación después de la cirugía fue lenta.
B1The recovery after the surgery was slow.
slow-witted, dull
Also: dim
📝 In Action
Es una estudiante muy lenta, necesita mucha ayuda.
B1She is a very slow student; she needs a lot of help.
No es que sea lenta, es que está distraída.
B2It's not that she's slow-witted, it's that she's distracted.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "lenta" in Spanish:
gradual→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: lenta
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'lenta'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *lentus*, which meant 'pliant,' 'slow,' or 'sticky.' The meaning evolved over time to focus primarily on the lack of speed.
First recorded: Old Spanish (around the 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'lenta' and 'lentamente'?
'Lenta' is an adjective, used to describe a feminine thing (La máquina es lenta). 'Lentamente' is an adverb, used to describe how an action is performed, regardless of gender (Ella camina lentamente).
Why is 'lenta' used and not 'lento'?
'Lenta' is the feminine form. It must be used when the noun it modifies is feminine (like 'la casa', 'la idea', or 'la mujer'). If the noun were masculine (like 'el coche'), you would use 'lento'.