Quiero cocinar la carne.

I want to cook the meat.

Breakdown of Quiero cocinar la carne.

• yo: I
• querer: to want
• la: the
• cocinar: to cook
• la carne: the meat

Questions & Answers about Quiero cocinar la carne.

What is the implied subject in the sentence "Quiero cocinar la carne"?

In Spanish, the subject is often omitted because the verb form carries the information. The verb quiero is conjugated in the first person singular, so the subject yo (I) is understood even though it isn’t explicitly mentioned.

Why is the verb cocinar in its infinitive form?

In Spanish, when a verb like querer (to want) is followed by another verb, that second verb is used in its infinitive form. Here, cocinar means “to cook,” and it remains in the infinitive to show the action that the subject wants to perform.

What does the phrase la carne mean, and why is the definite article used?

The phrase la carne translates to “the meat.” In Spanish, nouns usually require an article. The definite article la indicates that you are referring to a specific meat (either contextually known or understood in general terms) and ensures proper gender agreement since carne is a feminine noun.

What is the literal translation of "Quiero cocinar la carne" into English?

The sentence literally translates to "I want to cook the meat." Notice that although the word yo (I) doesn’t appear, it is understood from the conjugated verb quiero.

Are there alternative ways to express the desire to cook meat in Spanish?

Yes, you could say "Me gustaría cocinar la carne," which means “I would like to cook the meat.” This expression is slightly more polite or less direct than "quiero cocinar la carne."

How do I know that carne is a feminine noun, and why must the article match?

Every Spanish noun has a gender. Carne is classified as feminine, which is why it takes the feminine definite article la. In Spanish grammar, ensuring that articles and adjectives agree in gender (and number) with the noun is crucial for clear and correct communication.