Learn Hardcore Spanish (Latin America): Mi hermana usa tinta especial para dibujar, pero a veces deja manchas en la mesa. - My sister uses special ink to draw, but sometimes she leaves stains on the table.

In Spanish, subjects are often dropped when they’re clearly implied by context. Here, “mi hermana” (my sister) is mentioned, so the third-person singular form “usa” unambiguously indicates that she is using the ink, making an explicit pronoun unnecessary.

What does “tinta especial” mean, and what kind of ink is being referred to?

“Tinta especial” translates to “special ink.” In this sentence, it suggests a unique or specially formulated ink meant for drawing. Although “tinta” simply means “ink,” modifying it with “especial” emphasizes that this isn’t ordinary ink but one with specific qualities suited for a particular purpose.

Why is the phrase “para dibujar” used, and what does it indicate about the ink’s purpose?

The phrase “para dibujar” means “for drawing.” It explains the intended use or purpose of the special ink. In Spanish, “para” is a preposition used to indicate purpose or destination, much like “for” in English when describing why something is used.

Why does the sentence use both “usa” and “deja” in the present tense? Do they indicate habitual actions?

Yes, both verbs are in the present tense to describe habitual or routine actions. “Mi hermana usa tinta especial para dibujar” indicates that she regularly uses this special ink, while “a veces deja manchas en la mesa” tells us that occasionally, as a side effect, stains appear on the table. The present tense here is used to depict general truths or repeated behaviors.

What does “a veces” mean, and how does its placement affect the sentence’s meaning?

“A veces” translates as “sometimes.” Its placement before “deja manchas” highlights that the action of leaving stains isn’t constant but happens on occasion. In Spanish, adverbs of frequency like “a veces” can be positioned to emphasize that an action occurs irregularly.

Why is there a comma before “pero a veces deja manchas en la mesa”?

The comma is used to separate two independent clauses joined by the conjunction “pero” (but). The first clause states what my sister does with the ink, and the second clause contrasts it by explaining the occasional unintended result (stains on the table). The comma clarifies the structure and makes the contrast more evident.