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Questions & Answers about El adiós fue solemne.
Why is the noun "adiós" preceded by the definite article el?
In Spanish, nouns usually require an article to mark them as specific or identifiable. Here, el adiós (“the farewell”) uses el because it refers to a particular farewell, making it clear and definite within its context.
What tense is "fue" and why is it the appropriate choice in this sentence?
"Fue" is the preterite form of the verb ser, used to express completed actions or states in the past. In this sentence, it conveys that the farewell was definitively solemn at that moment, making it the right choice over other tenses.
Why does the adjective solemne come after the noun instead of before it?
In Spanish, adjectives that describe inherent qualities or states generally follow the noun they modify. Placing solemne after adiós emphasizes that the nature of the farewell itself is solemn, similar to the word order in English when using linking verbs (e.g., "The farewell was solemn").
Does the adjective solemne change to match the gender of the noun in this case?
No, adjectives ending in -e—like solemne—are typically invariable with regard to gender. Whether the noun is masculine or feminine, the adjective remains the same, which is why it appears as solemne for el adiós.
Why is ser (as in "fue") used in this sentence instead of estar?
The verb ser is used to denote inherent, defining qualities or characteristics, while estar describes temporary or changeable conditions. Since being "solemn" is considered an intrinsic quality of the farewell, ser is appropriate, and its preterite form fue correctly communicates that characteristic was fixed in the past.