Word
Se dice que el mejor momento para hervir pasta es cuando el agua está en ebullición completa.
Meaning
It is said that the best time to boil pasta is when the water is at a full boil.
Part of speech
sentence
Pronunciation
Course
Lesson
Breakdown of Se dice que el mejor momento para hervir pasta es cuando el agua está en ebullición completa.
el agua
the water
ser
to be
en
in
para
to
estar
to be
cuando
when
que
that
mejor
best
decir
to say
el momento
the moment
hervir
to boil
la pasta
the pasta
la ebullición
the boiling
completo
full
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Questions & Answers about Se dice que el mejor momento para hervir pasta es cuando el agua está en ebullición completa.
What does Se dice que mean, and how is it used in this sentence?
Se dice que translates to “it is said that.” It’s an impersonal expression used to relay general wisdom or common advice without mentioning a specific source. In this context, it emphasizes that the tip about boiling pasta comes from general culinary advice or tradition.
What does en ebullición completa mean, and is it equivalent to “a rolling boil” in English?
En ebullición completa means “when the water is in full boiling” or “boiling vigorously.” It is equivalent to “a rolling boil” in English. The phrase underscores that the water must reach maximum bubbling activity before adding the pasta to ensure proper cooking.
Why is there no definite article before pasta? Shouldn’t it be la pasta?
In Spanish, when referring to food in a general sense—especially in recipes or general advice—the definite article is often omitted. While using la pasta is not incorrect, dropping it here makes the statement more general, implying pasta as a category rather than a specific dish.
What role does the word completa play in ebullición completa, and is it necessary?
The adjective completa emphasizes that the water isn’t just starting to boil but has reached a full, vigorous boil. Although simply saying en ebullición can be enough in everyday language, adding completa clarifies that the water must be at its optimal boiling state for the best results when cooking pasta.
Is using an impersonal construction like Se dice que... common when giving advice in Spanish?
Yes, it is very common. Such impersonal constructions allow speakers to share general advice or widely accepted opinions without attributing them to a particular individual. This style is often used in culinary contexts and proverbs, making the recommendation feel more universal and less personal.
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