Headway's Word of the Week archive

mind (verb)

Mind can mean to feel unhappy or annoyed (1), to be careful (2), and to look after (3). It is used in many expressions.

'Do you mind if I smoke?' 'Yes, I do mind. Please put that cigarette out.' (1)
Mind the broken glass on the floor. (2)
Will you mind the children while I go to the shops? (3)

Check out expressions with meaning 1

When mind means to feel unhappy or annoyed, it is usually used in the negative or questions.

I don't mind working late.
(= it's not a problem. Note the –ing form)
Would you mind opening the window for me?
(= a polite request)
Don't mind him. He's always rude.
(= ignore him)
If you don't mind, I'd like to go home now.
(= with your permission. Note that this is often said with strong stress on don't and an angry tone – it means you are angry.)
If you don't mind me saying so, you have some food on your chin.
(= if I may say this politely, without offending you)

Check out expressions with meaning 2

When mind means be careful (of) or pay attention to, it is often used in the imperative.

Mind out! It's dangerous here.
Mind your own business. It's got nothing to do with you.
Mind your manners, children. Say thank you to Aunt Joan.
It's a lovely restaurant with great food. Mind you, it is expensive.
(= but pay attention, let's not forget)
Bye, Frank. Mind how you go.
(= a friendly way to say goodbye)

Check out the uses of never mind and wouldn't mind

Look at the uses in these conversations.

A I wouldn't mind going out tonight.
(= I would quite like to)
B Never mind that. You've got homework to do.
(= this is not important in comparison to the other thing)

A I failed the spelling test today.
B Never mind. Have a biscuit.
(= don't worry. It's not so important)

A Can you get me a beer, John?
B Sure. Where's the fridge?
A Never mind. I'll get it myself.
(= it's OK – it's not important – I'll do it myself)

A What are you talking about?
B Never you mind.
(= it's none of your business)

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