La montagna è alta.

to be

Breakdown of La montagna è alta.

• la montagna: the mountain
• alto: high

Questions & Answers about La montagna è alta.

What does the definite article la represent in La montagna è alta?

In Italian, la is the definite article used for feminine singular nouns. Since montagna (mountain) is a feminine noun, la is used just like "the" in English.

Why is the verb written as è, and what does it signify?

È is the third person singular form of the verb essere, which means "to be." In this sentence, it functions as the linking verb between the subject (la montagna) and the adjective (alta).

How does the adjective alta agree with the noun montagna?

In Italian, adjectives must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify. Since montagna is feminine and singular, alta is also in its feminine singular form to properly match it.

What is the typical word order of this sentence, and how does it compare to English?

The sentence follows a Subject-Verb-Adjective structure: la montagna (subject) + è (verb) + alta (adjective). This word order is quite similar to English ("the mountain is high"), making it easier for English speakers to understand.

Can the adjective alta be positioned before the noun instead of after it, and would that alter the meaning?

While adjectives in Italian often come after the noun, some adjectives can be placed before the noun for emphasis, stylistic reasons, or to convey a slightly different nuance. However, in descriptive sentences like this one, the standard placement after the noun is preferred to maintain typical meaning and clarity.

Are there any pronunciation tips for the word montagna that an English speaker should know?

Yes. In Italian, montagna is pronounced with the accent on the second-to-last syllable: mon-TAG-na. The gn combination in Italian produces a sound similar to the "ny" in "canyon," which may differ from English pronunciation rules.