min
/min/
minute
The abbreviation 'min' translating to 'minute', a small unit of time.
📝 In Action
Faltan 5 min para que empiece la película.
A1There are 5 minutes left until the movie starts.
El tiempo de cocción es de 20 min.
A2The cooking time is 20 minutes.
La reunión duró 45 min, ni más ni menos.
B1The meeting lasted 45 minutes, no more, no less.
💡 Grammar Points
Use as a Symbol
Like other units of time (h for 'hora', s for 'segundo'), 'min' is an internationally recognized symbol. This means it is never pluralized (you don't add an 's') and you usually don't put a period after it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Adding a Period or 's'
Mistake: "La clase dura 5 mins. or La clase dura 5 min."
Correction: The correct way to write it is 'La clase dura 5 min'. Symbols for units of measure do not use a period or change form for plural.
⭐ Usage Tips
When to Use the Abbreviation
Only use 'min' when writing numbers (e.g., 20 min). When speaking or writing a full sentence without a number, always use the full word 'minuto' or 'minutos'.
The abbreviation 'min' translating to 'minimum', the lowest possible amount.
📝 In Action
El salario min requerido es de 1000 euros.
B1The minimum salary required is 1000 euros.
Necesitas una nota min de 70 para aprobar.
B2You need a minimum grade of 70 to pass.
💡 Grammar Points
Technical Shorthand
In math and data entry, 'min' is often used as shorthand for 'minimum' or 'minimal' to save space, especially when contrasted with 'máx' (maximum).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: min
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the abbreviation 'min' for 'minute'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use 'min' or 'minuto' when speaking?
Always use the full word 'minuto' or 'minutos' when you are speaking. 'Min' is only used in writing, usually next to a number, like '5 min'.
Is 'min' capitalized?
No, 'min' should be written in lowercase, just like the full word 'minuto' or 'mínimo'.