Learn Hardcore Spanish (Latin America): La velocidad es importante para aprender español.

Velocidad means “speed.” In Latin American Spanish it’s pronounced [beh-loh-see-ˈdahd], with the stress on the last syllable (because it ends in a consonant other than n or s).

Why is there a definite article la before velocidad?

Spanish often uses the definite article with abstract nouns when speaking in general. So la velocidad = “speed” as a concept, not one particular speed.

Why do we use es importante instead of está importante?

We use the verb ser (es) for inherent or defining qualities. Saying es importante treats importance as an essential characteristic. Estar importante would sound odd because estar expresses temporary states or locations.

How do we know to use para aprender and not por aprender?

Para + infinitive expresses purpose or goal: “in order to learn.” Por usually indicates cause, reason, or exchange (“because of” or “for something given”). To say “for the purpose of learning,” you need para.

Can I drop para and still keep the same meaning?

Not with the same structure. You could say Es importante aprender español (“It’s important to learn Spanish”), but if you start with La velocidad, you need para: La velocidad es importante aprender español is ungrammatical.

Why is español not capitalized?

In Spanish, names of languages (and nationalities, days, months) are written in lowercase: español, inglés, francés, etc.

Can I use an article before español, like para aprender el español?

Yes. Para aprender el español is also correct and emphasizes the specific language. However, in general statements Spanish often omits the article: para aprender español.

Why not use a subjunctive clause like es importante que aprendas español?

They convey different ideas.

Para + infinitive (purpose): “Speed is important in order to learn Spanish.”
Que + subjunctive (necessity/advice): “It’s important that you learn Spanish.”
Both are valid but focus on different aspects.