Use of definite Article or not

Stuart M.B1Kwiziq community member

Use of definite Article or not

Why do you use the definitive article with "cumplir los deseos", but not with "con humildad y esperanza" ?

Asked 11 months ago
SilviaNative Spanish expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hola Stuart

The use of the definite article in Spanish, such as with "cumplir los deseos", is influenced by the specific context and grammatical rules. In this case, "cumplir los deseos" involves a specific action of fulfilling wishes, where the definite article is used to refer to those particular wishes.

On the other hand, "con humildad y esperanza" employs a prepositional phrase describing the manner or attitude in which an action is performed, and in such cases, Spanish often omits the definite article. It's a matter of grammatical structure and the nuances of expression.

In summary, the choice of using or not using the definite article depends on the linguistic function of the phrase within the sentence, whether it denotes a specific entity (requiring the article) or describes a general quality or manner (where the article may be omitted).

I hope this explanation helps you out.

Cordialmente

Silvia

 
 

Use of definite Article or not

Why do you use the definitive article with "cumplir los deseos", but not with "con humildad y esperanza" ?

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your Spanish level for FREE

Test your Spanish to the CEFR standard

Find your Spanish level
I'll be right with you...