Aun

Today’s Spanish word of the day is “aun” or “aún”. It can be written with or without an accent on the u depending on the context and way it is used.

The word “aun” (without an accent) is an adverb that usually translates as “even”. When written as “aún” (with an accent), it is also an adverb, but usually translates as “still” or “yet”.

Both forms of the word come from Latin adhuc, meaning “until here” or “until now”.

Aun vs. aún

Understanding the difference between “aun” and “aún” can be tricky, even for native Spanish speakers. Here are a few general pointers:

The use of an accent reflects a difference in pronunciation: “Aún” is pronounced with two syllables (a–ún), whereas in “aun”, the au vowel combination is a single syllable.

• “Aun” = “even”. When used to exaggerate or emphasize something, the word “aun” is usually written without an accent. Example:
  • Aun los expertos se equivocan. – Even experts make mistakes.
• Exception: When combined with other adverbs such as “más”, “menos”, “major” or “peor”, “aún” is used instead. Example:
  • Este es aún mejor. – This is even better.
• “Aún” = “still/yet”. When used to refer to time, “aún” is written with an accent. Example:
  • Aún no he terminado. – I haven’t finished yet.

Example sentences