El puente es ancho.

to be

Breakdown of El puente es ancho.

• el puente: the bridge
• ancho: wide

Questions & Answers about El puente es ancho.

Why do we use el before puente?

In Spanish every noun has gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural). Puente is a masculine singular noun, so you need the masculine singular definite article el.

Why is the verb es used instead of está?

Spanish uses ser (here es) for essential characteristics or inherent qualities. Describing width is considered an inherent property, so you use ser. Estar (e.g., está) indicates temporary states or locations.

Why does the adjective ancho come after the noun?

Descriptive adjectives typically follow the noun in Spanish (noun + adjective). So puente ancho is the standard order. Placing an adjective before the noun can add emphasis or a poetic tone.

What happens to ancho if the noun is feminine or plural?

Adjectives must agree in gender and number with their noun: • Feminine singular: la calle ancha
• Masculine plural: los puentes anchos
• Feminine plural: las calles anchas

Can I use amplio instead of ancho?