Inklingo

How to Say "time-consuming" in Spanish

English → Spanish

tardado

tar-DAH-dohtaɾˈdaðo

adjectiveB1
Use 'tardado' when referring to a formal process, procedure, or bureaucratic task that is known for taking a long time.
A person carefully painting a very large, intricate mural with a tiny brush.

Examples

El proceso de aprobación de la hipoteca fue muy tardado.

The mortgage approval process was very time-consuming.

El trámite para la visa es muy tardado.

The visa process is very time-consuming.

No seas tardado, ya casi nos vamos.

Don't be so slow, we're almost leaving.

Fue un viaje tardado por la lluvia.

It was a lengthy trip because of the rain.

Gender Agreement

Remember to change the ending to 'tardada' when describing feminine words, like 'una tarea tardada' (a time-consuming task).

Tardado vs. Lento

Mistake: “Using 'lento' for everything that takes time.”

Correction: Use 'lento' for speed (a slow car) and 'tardado' for duration (a task that takes a long time).

entretenido

en-tre-te-NEE-doentɾeteˈniðo

adjectiveB2
Use 'entretenido' for a task or activity that takes a considerable amount of time, often implying it's engaging or requires focus, but not necessarily bureaucratic.
A person carefully building a large, complex model ship out of many small pieces.

Examples

Restaurar este mueble antiguo es un proyecto muy entretenido.

Restoring this antique furniture is a very time-consuming project.

Pintar estas miniaturas es un trabajo muy entretenido.

Painting these miniatures is a very time-consuming job.

Perdona, estaba entretenido con el correo y no te oí.

Sorry, I was busy with the mail and didn't hear you.

Esta receta es entretenida de hacer, pero está deliciosa.

This recipe takes a lot of work to make, but it's delicious.

The 'Taking Time' Meaning

When 'entretenido' describes a task (like cooking or cleaning), it doesn't always mean it's 'fun'; it often means it requires patience and takes time.

Don't assume it's always positive

Mistake: “Asking '¿Es entretenido?' about a boring but long chore.”

Correction: Only use it for chores if you want to emphasize that they require attention or keep you busy.

Tardado vs. Entretenido

Learners often confuse 'tardado' and 'entretenido' by using 'tardado' for any task that takes a long time. Remember that 'tardado' is best for official processes, while 'entretenido' is more for activities that occupy your time, even if pleasurably.

Related Translations

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