Question 1

How does "d'autant plus que" change the meaning here compared to just using "parce que"?

Accepted Answer

While parce que simply means "because", d'autant plus que adds intensity. It translates to "all the more so because" or "especially since". It shows that the fact the document is old makes it even more highly coveted than it already would be.

Question 2

I usually see "auction" translated in the plural as "les enchères". Why is it singular here?

Accepted Answer

You are right that the auction event as a whole is usually referred to in the plural as les enchères or une vente aux enchères. Using the singular l'enchère here refers to the specific bidding process for this exact document, rather than the entire auction event.

Question 3

What is the verb behind "convoité"?

Accepted Answer

It comes from the regular -er verb convoiter, which means "to covet", "to lust after", or "to strongly desire". It is great B2-level vocabulary that implies a deep eagerness to possess something rare or valuable.

Question 4

Why does the end of the sentence use "il est vieux" instead of "c'est vieux"?

Accepted Answer

We use il est because it is followed directly by a lone adjective (vieux) that refers back to a specific, previously mentioned noun (ce document). You would use c'est here if you were following it with an article and a noun, such as in the phrase c'est un vieux document.

Ce document est très convoité pendant l'enchère, d'autant plus qu'il est vieux.

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