Learn Hardcore Spanish (Latin America): Prefiero usar el tren subterráneo durante las horas pico, porque evito el tráfico intenso. - I prefer to use the subway during rush hours because I avoid heavy traffic.

In Spanish, when expressing a preference with verbs like prefiero, it is common to follow them with an infinitive. This structure—prefiero usar—directly translates to "I prefer to use." It avoids the need for a subordinate clause and is a very standard construction in Spanish.

Why is the definite article el used before tren subterráneo?

Even when referring generally to a mode of transportation, Spanish often uses the definite article. In this sentence, el tren subterráneo means "the underground train." The use of el helps specify the system being mentioned, which is a typical practice even when the reference is general.

What does the phrase durante las horas pico imply in terms of time?

The phrase durante las horas pico literally means "during the peak hours." It refers to the time periods when travel volume is highest, often corresponding to what in English we call "rush hour." This part of the sentence specifies that the action takes place when traffic is typically most congested.

How do the adjectives subterráneo and intenso agree with their nouns?

In Spanish, adjectives must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify. Tren is a masculine singular noun, so subterráneo is also masculine singular. Similarly, tráfico is masculine singular, which is why intenso is used in its masculine singular form. This agreement is essential for correct Spanish grammar.

What is the function of the comma before porque in this sentence?

The comma before porque is used to separate the main clause from the explanatory clause that provides a reason. Although in Spanish a comma before porque isn’t always mandatory, here it helps clarify that the second part ("I avoid heavy traffic") is explaining or justifying the preference expressed in the first part.

What does evito tell us about the speaker’s habits or actions?

Evito is the first-person singular present form of the verb evitar, meaning "to avoid." Its use here indicates that the speaker habitually avoids heavy traffic. This habitual action is presented as the reason for preferring the underground train during peak hours.

Is the term tren subterráneo common in Latin America, or is there another term used?

While tren subterráneo correctly describes an underground train system, many Latin American regions often use the term metro instead. Both terms are understood, but the choice might depend on regional preferences or the specific transit system being discussed.