Vocabulary: ‘mind’ as a verb
Lower to higher level English (A2-C1)

‘Mind’ can be a verb and is often used in conversation. It is an important verb to understand and use correctly. It has several meanings.

Do you mind sitting in a different chair?
Do you mind having rice instead of potatoes?
Do you mind helping Sue with her homework?

In these examples we are checking if someone has a problem with or objection to something. The answer (if there is no problem) will usually be something like: ‘No, that’s fine’ or No, not at all’ or ‘Of course not’.

You will notice that ‘ing‘ is used after the verb.

If there is a problem, the answer will depend on the relationship between the speakers. For example:

Do you mind sitting in a different chair? I can’t see the TV.

Oh do I have to? (teenage child)

Do you mind having rice instead of potatoes?
I’m sorry but I’m allergic to rice (guest)

Do you mind helping Sue with her homework?
I’m a little busy at the moment but I can help her in half an hour. Is that OK? (partner/spouse)

To be more polite or careful/sensitive you can say ‘Would you mind …ing? ‘ instead of ‘Do you mind …ing?’ eg ‘Would you mind picking me up at 10pm rather than 8pm?’

If you use the London Underground, you will hear ‘Mind the gap’ before you get on a train. This is advising you to take care.  Another example of this is ‘Mind your head.’ You can sometimes see this on signs in old pubs, where the ceilings are quite low.

If you have to mind the baby, you have to look after it, feed it, clean it etc. Eg

‘Can you join us tonight?’
‘I’m sorry I have to mind my sister’s baby.’

Finally

If someone is asking for too much private information you can use ‘mind one’s own business‘ to describe the situation eg:

‘You seemed rather upset with Michael last night.’
‘Yes, I wish he would mind his own business. He’s so nosy. Next time I won’t be so polite!’
But be careful because if you use this expression directly to the person, it is extremely strong and they may get very upset or angry!