Infinitives as Subjects
In English, actions acting as subjects typically end in "-ing" (like "fasting"). In Spanish, use the infinitive form. To emphasize that the verb is acting as a noun, place the masculine singular definite article el before the infinitive.
| Fasting helps to purify the organism. | El ayunar ayuda a purificar el organismo. |
| Breathing in the sauna is very relaxing. | El respirar en el sauna es muy relajante. |
Reflexive Verbs as Subjects
If the infinitive is a reflexive verb, attach the pronoun (like se) directly to the end.
| Isolating oneself in a holistic retreat can become stressful. | El aislarse en un retiro holístico puede llegar a ser estresante. |
| Isolating oneself during the mystical ritual purifies the organism. | El aislarse durante el ritual místico purifica el organismo. |
Building Longer Subject Phrases
You can include prepositions or objects after the infinitive to create a longer subject phrase. The article el still goes at the very beginning.
| Meditating with the shaman is a mystical experience. | El meditar con el chamán es una experiencia mística. |
| Participating in the guru's ritual promises healing. | El participar en el ritual del gurú promete la sanación. |
Your questions are stored by us to improve Elon.io