mind
A1 (Noun) / B1 (Verb)Universal; used across all registers from informal to formal.
Definition
Meaning
The element of a person that enables them to think, feel, experience consciousness, and form intentions.
Used to refer broadly to attention, opinion, intention, or the process of thinking, and also as a verb meaning to pay attention to, object to, or be concerned about something.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Noun 'mind' encompasses intellect, memory, intention, and consciousness. Verb 'mind' is polysemous: it can mean 'object to', 'take care of', 'pay attention to', or 'heed'. The imperative 'Mind...' is used for warnings.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The imperative 'Mind your head!' is more common in UK English for warnings; US English prefers 'Watch your head!'. The phrase 'do you mind...?' is equally common, but UK English more frequently uses 'mind' to mean 'look after' (mind the baby).
Connotations
In both, 'mind' as a noun is core and neutral. The verb 'mind' in requests can sound slightly more formal or old-fashioned in some US contexts.
Frequency
Verb usage (especially in requests/warnings) is significantly more frequent in British English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
mind (that) + clausemind + -ing formmind + noun/pronounDo you mind if...?Would you mind...?Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “out of sight, out of mind”
- “in two minds”
- “blow someone's mind”
- “mind over matter”
- “a load off one's mind”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Strategic mindset, company mindset, mindful of costs.
Academic
Philosophy of mind, cognitive science, theory of mind.
Everyday
Do you mind? I don't mind. What's on your mind?
Technical
Computational model of mind, mind-body problem.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Would you mind closing the window?
- Mind the step!
- Could you mind my bag for a moment?
American English
- Do you mind if I sit here?
- Mind your manners.
- I don't mind the cold weather.
adverb
British English
- He nodded mindlessly at the screen.
- She acted mindfully.
American English
- He scrolled mindlessly through his phone.
- Listen mindfully to the instructions.
adjective
British English
- She is very mindful of her expenses.
- A mindful approach to eating.
American English
- Be mindful of the time.
- He's not being very mindful.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I have a picture in my mind.
- Do you mind? This is my seat.
- My mind is tired.
- He changed his mind about the job.
- Keep in mind that the shop closes early.
- Would you mind helping me?
- The idea never crossed my mind.
- She's of a very independent mind.
- I don't mind you being late, but please call next time.
- His philosophical treatise explores the nature of the conscious mind.
- Would you mind my asking where you got that information?
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MINE with a 'D' at the end. Your MIND is a mine of thoughts and ideas.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE MIND IS A CONTAINER (e.g., 'it slipped my mind', 'in the back of my mind'). THE MIND IS A MACHINE (e.g., 'my mind is racing', 'his mind is sharp').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate 'mind' as 'мозг' (brain) when it refers to opinion ('change your mind' = 'передумать', not 'сменить мозг').
- Beware of 'I don't mind'. It means 'Мне всё равно' or 'Не возражаю', not 'Я не против' (which can imply active agreement).
- Russian 'ум' is a narrower concept; English 'mind' includes emotions and will more directly.
Common Mistakes
- *I am minding about the weather. (Incorrect; 'mind' is not typically used with 'about' in this way. Use 'I mind the weather' or 'I care about the weather'.)
- Using 'mind' as a direct translation for 'brain' in medical contexts.
- Confusing 'never mind' (forget it) with 'it doesn't matter' (though they are close).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most likely meaning of 'mind' in the sentence: 'Great minds think alike.'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Brain' is the physical organ. 'Mind' is the intangible seat of consciousness, thought, and feeling. 'Head' can be used informally to mean 'mind' ('It's all in your head'), but primarily refers to the physical body part.
It depends on tone and context. Said with a polite tone, it's a standard request for permission or help. Said sharply, it can be a rebuke for someone's intrusive behaviour.
The standard form for the phrase meaning 'forget it' or 'it doesn't matter' is two words: 'never mind'. 'Nevermind' (one word) is non-standard, though famously used as an album title.
If you agree (i.e., you do NOT object), say: 'No, not at all,' or 'Go ahead.' Saying 'Yes' means you DO mind (you object), which is the opposite of what you likely intend.