How and when do I use entonces? I know it means something like "and then" but how do I use it in context?
I don't understand how to use entonces in a sentence. I think I understand what it means, but in what context is it appropriate?
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2Same thing as English "then": it can express time (after that) or consequence (so).– GustavsonCommented Nov 19, 2019 at 19:19
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3 Answers
"Entonces" is used wherever you would use "then" in English.
Some examples
Cuando llegue la ayuda entonces podremos saber que pasó
When help arrives, then we can find out what's happened...Escuchamos la conmoción, entonces paró.
We heard the commotion, then it stopped.Si te gustan los duraznos entonces disfrutarás el postre If you like peaches then you will enjoy the dessert
A different example could be expressions containing entonces that also translate as then like this one:
- En aquel entonces la vida era más simple.
- Back then, life was simpler.
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Very helpful, although I've never heard the third example. I'll roll it around on my tongue and try to assimilate it in that context. I assume I need the entire phrase: en aquel entonces for it to make sense as "back then."– SharonCommented Nov 19, 2019 at 20:11
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Yes, You are both right. It is better to say "back then". Thanks @pablodf76. I corrected my answer– DGaleanoCommented Nov 19, 2019 at 21:13
I will add an example to the perfectly written answer by DGaleano.
In this case I think that entonces does not mean then:
¿Entonces, te parece bien?
So, do you think it is ok?
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If you need to expand another user's contribution, add a comment to their answer.– DiegoCommented Nov 20, 2019 at 11:31
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1This does not provide an answer to the question. Once you have sufficient reputation you will be able to comment on any post; instead, provide answers that don't require clarification from the asker. - From Review– DiegoCommented Nov 20, 2019 at 11:31
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2Thanks @Neo for the addition. It still stands that whenever you use "then" you can use "entonces" but it is also true that some other things like this use of "so" can be made into "entonces". Then, do you think this is wrong? 😊– DGaleanoCommented Nov 20, 2019 at 15:48
Entonces more accurately translates to "In that case". Google translate has it wrong y'all. There are other ways to say in that case in Spanish, I already know this. But that is exactly how entonces is used every single time.
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I think that if you look in the dictionary dle.rae.es/entonces?m=form you will find that your answer is only half true.– mdeweyCommented Oct 1, 2023 at 15:04
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This does not provide an answer to the question. Once you have sufficient reputation you will be able to comment on any post; instead, provide answers that don't require clarification from the asker. - From Review– tacCommented Oct 3, 2023 at 16:03