How to Use "Mind" Like a Native Speaker
Although similar, "mind" is not the same as "brain." In fact, it has a deeper meaning and can be used in many more types of situations.
To help you learn how to use "mind" like a native speaker, let's take a closer look at each of its forms as well as some example sentences and idioms.
As a Noun
In its noun form, "mind" refers to the part of us that allows us to think, feel and experience the world. On the other hand, "brain" refers to the physical part of our bodies that processes information.
Clear your mind and try to relax.
Psychologists study how the human mind works.
When she heard his name, many memories came to her mind.
In some cases, "mind" can mean "expert" or "intelligent person."
Many of the world's greatest minds gathered at the science conference.
As a Verb
When used as a verb, "mind" has a few meanings. Perhaps the most common is "to care or be bothered by," which is mostly used in questions and in the negative form.
Do you mind if I sit here?
My apartment is near a major road, but I don't mind the noise from the traffic.
It can also mean "pay attention to" or "take care of." This usage sounds slightly formal in American English.
Mind the time; you don't want to miss your train.
Can you mind the children while I go to the post office?
That was a rude thing to say. Mind your manners!
Also, announcements on London's train system tell riders to "mind the gap" between the train and the platform. In other words, "Pay attention to the empty space so you don't fall and hurt yourself."
“Mind” in Idioms
"Mind" appears in quite a few English idioms that are used often in daily conversations.
Have something in mind
"Having something in mind" means thinking about something as a suggestion or as a preference.
A
Let's go out to eat tonight.
B
OK. What did you have in mind?
A
Italian.
I'd like to watch a movie, but I don't have anything particular in mind.
Give a piece of one’s mind
When you "give someone a piece of your mind," you confront them directly about something they've done that you don't like.
Jack is always late for meetings. When he finally gets here, I'm going to give him a piece of my mind!
Jane gave her ex-boyfriend a piece of her mind before she dumped him.
Related article: English Slang for Online Dating
Never mind
This common phrase means "It's not important" or "Forget about it."
Can I borrow your pen? Oh, never mind – I have one here.
A
What were you going to say?
B
Never mind – it wasn't important.
Remember that on social media and in text messages, "never mind" is often shortened to "NVM" or "nvm."
Keep something in mind
This phrase means "Please remember," and it's often used before introducing important information. People sometimes say "bear in mind" instead.
Keep in mind that temperatures can drop very low at night, so please pack warm clothing.
English is common in tourist areas, but not in rural towns, so please bear that in mind.
Don’t mind ~ / Don’t pay any mind ~
We use these expressions as a way to say, "Don't worry/think about ~."
Don't mind my puppy. He's very friendly around new people.
The painter continues to make art that he feels is authentic, without paying any mind to his critics.
Come to mind
"Come to mind" means "to remember" or "to think about."
He asked me for restaurant recommendations, but nothing came to mind.
What comes to mind when I say "perfect vacation spot"?
Mind over matter
We use this idiom to say that what we think about something can have a greater effect on us than the reality of the situation.
She finished the marathon despite being physically exhausted, proving that success came down to mind over matter.
On one’s mind
If something is "on your mind," it means you've been thinking about it.
Cassie has been on my mind recently. I should call her and see how she's been.
You look like you have a lot on your mind. Wanna talk about it?
Out of one’s mind
This idiom refers to being crazy or not thinking clearly.
You're wearing a t-shirt and shorts in this cold weather? Are you out of your mind??
Put one’s mind to something
"Putting one's mind to something" means focusing one's attention and energy in order to complete a task.
I told my daughter that she can accomplish anything if she puts her mind to it.
Have an open mind
People with "open minds" are willing to accept new and different ideas and opinions.
The movie is very experimental, so please try to have an open mind while you watch it.
All of my friends are very kind and open-minded.
Wrap-up
Because of the deep meaning of "mind," you might hear it often in daily conversations, each time with a different nuance.
Use this article as a guide to help you get comfortable with its usages — then practice them yourself in a one-on-one lesson with an Engoo tutor!
If you'd like to learn more English related to how we use our minds, be sure to read Using Your Head: 15 Different Ways to Say "Think"
