Breakdown of La selva es densa y la cruzamos con cuidado.
ser
to be
con
with
nosotros
we
y
and
el cuidado
the care
la
it
cruzar
to cross
la selva
the jungle
denso
dense
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Questions & Answers about La selva es densa y la cruzamos con cuidado.
Why do we use ser (es) instead of estar for describing la selva?
We use ser because densa is an inherent, permanent characteristic of the jungle. Estar is reserved for temporary states, locations, or conditions.
What is the function of la in la cruzamos?
La is a feminine direct object pronoun replacing la selva. It comes before the conjugated verb. Instead of saying cruzamos la selva, you can say la cruzamos once la selva is clear in context.
Is cruzamos present or past tense?
Cruzamos can be both present indicative (we cross) and preterite past (we crossed). Context decides. If you’re describing a current action, it’s present; in a past narrative, it’s preterite. Time markers or consistent tense in surrounding sentences clarify the meaning.
Why is there no subject pronoun nosotros before cruzamos?
Spanish often drops subject pronouns because the verb ending -amos already indicates the subject nosotros (we). Including nosotros is optional and used for emphasis or clarity.
Why do we say con cuidado instead of cuidadosamente?
Both mean carefully. Con cuidado is a common prepositional phrase in spoken Spanish, while cuidadosamente is an adverbial form, more formal or written. You can use either depending on style.
Why is the adjective densa feminine?
Adjectives in Spanish must agree in gender and number with the nouns they modify. Selva is feminine, so the adjective takes the feminine form densa, not denso.