Breakdown of En la ciudad de México, el transporte subterráneo es una opción rápida para desplazarse.
ser
to be
en
in
de
of
para
for
la ciudad
the city
rápido
fast
el transporte
the transportation
,
comma
México
Mexico
subterráneo
underground
la opción
the option
desplazarse
to get around
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Questions & Answers about En la ciudad de México, el transporte subterráneo es una opción rápida para desplazarse.
What does "transporte subterráneo" refer to in this sentence?
"Transporte subterráneo" literally means "underground transportation." In the context of the sentence, it refers to the subway system used in Mexico City, highlighting it as a fast way to get around.
Why is the verb "desplazarse" written in its reflexive form?
The verb "desplazarse" is reflexive because it describes movement carried out by the subject itself. In Spanish, many verbs related to personal motion are used reflexively to indicate that the subject is moving or relocating on its own.
Why is the article "la" used in the phrase "En la ciudad de México"?
The article "la" is used because "ciudad" is a feminine noun in Spanish. It also helps specify that the sentence is referring to a particular city—Mexico City—which reinforces that it is a specific, well-known location.
What role does the phrase "para desplazarse" play in the sentence?
The phrase "para desplazarse" functions as an infinitive of purpose. It explains why the subway is considered a good option—namely, it is used as a means or method to get around the city.
Why is the adjective "rápida" placed after "una opción" rather than before it?
In Spanish, adjectives can come either before or after the noun, but when placed after the noun (as in "una opción rápida"), they often emphasize an inherent quality of that noun. Here, positioning "rápida" after "opción" clearly defines that the option is characterized by speed.
Are there alternative ways to refer to underground transportation in Latin America, and if so, what might they be?
Yes, in many Latin American countries, the subway is often called "metro" (and in some regions "subte"). The sentence uses "transporte subterráneo" as a more formal or descriptive term to encompass the concept of underground public transit.