I'm learning polski

mimo — meaning in English: despite

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for despite
iluzja
mimo
czy
jechać
współpraca
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Polish for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use 'mimo' in various contexts, particularly to express contrast or concession. For example, in a conversation about traveling during bad weather, one might say, 'Mimo złej pogody, pojechaliśmy na wycieczkę,' meaning 'Despite the bad weather, we went on a trip.' It's common in both casual chats and more structured discussions.
Synonyms & nuances
'Mimo' is similar to 'pomimo,' which also means 'despite.' However, 'mimo' tends to convey a more personal or emotional context, while 'pomimo' is often used in more formal or objective scenarios. Choosing 'mimo' can add a layer of empathy or relatability to your statements.
Culture
'Mimo' has roots that trace back to the Old Slavic term 'mimo,' which meant 'beside' or 'past.' As Polish evolved, so did the word's meaning, leading to its modern use to denote concession. This progression mirrors the resilience of Polish culture, which has often thrived despite challenges throughout history.
FAQ
Q.What does 'mimo' mean in Polish?
'Mimo' translates to 'despite' in English, indicating a contrast between two ideas or situations. It's used to highlight how one situation occurs in the face of another.
Q.Can 'mimo' be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, 'mimo' can be used at the beginning of a sentence to emphasize the contrast. For example, 'Mimo że padał deszcz, poszliśmy na spacer' translates to 'Despite the rain, we went for a walk.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'mimo'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'mimo' with 'pomimo.' While both mean 'despite,' using them interchangeably can lead to subtle shifts in meaning. It's important to choose based on the emotional weight of your statement.
Learn polish with Maspeak →
Polish Vocabulary