Question 1

Why are there two a's close together in voy a empezar a practicar?

Accepted Answer

Both voy (from the verb ir) and empezar require the preposition a when they are followed by an infinitive (unconjugated) verb. First, we use voy a + empezar (I am going to start). Then we use the structure from this lesson, empezar a + practicar (to start practicing). Stacking them creates this chain!

Question 2

Does empezar always need an a after it?

Accepted Answer

It only needs an a when it is followed by another verb to state what action you are starting. If you are just starting a noun, you drop the a. For example, you say voy a empezar el juego (I am going to start the game) but voy a empezar a jugar (I am going to start playing).

Question 3

The English translation says 'practicing', so why is it practicar instead of practicando?

Accepted Answer

In English, we often use '-ing' words after verbs like 'start' or 'finish'. However, in Spanish, the formula is always empezar a + infinitive. You must leave the second verb in its original, unconjugated form (practicar) rather than using the Spanish '-ing' equivalent (practicando).

Question 4

Why isn't there a word for 'the' before tenis and ajedrez?

Accepted Answer

When using the verb practicar (to practice) with sports, games, or activities, Spanish usually drops the definite article (el or la). If you used the verb jugar (to play) instead, you would need it, because that verb pairs with a to form al: voy a jugar al tenis y al ajedrez.

Mañana voy a empezar a practicar tenis y ajedrez.

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