Question 1

Why does this sentence use leas instead of the normal present tense lees?

Accepted Answer

The phrase es fundamental que is an impersonal expression that states an opinion or a judgment. In Spanish, when you use 'it is [adjective] that...' to show importance or give advice, it forces the verb that follows into the subjunctive mood. That is why we use the subjunctive leas instead of the regular present tense lees.

Question 2

How do we get the subjunctive form leas from the verb leer?

Accepted Answer

To make the present subjunctive, you usually take the yo (I) form of the normal present tense, drop the -o, and add the 'opposite' endings. For an -er verb like leer, the normal yo form is leo. We drop the -o and add the -ar verb ending for tú (you), which is -as, giving us leas.

Question 3

Could I say Es fundamental leer el contrato instead?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it changes the meaning slightly. If you drop que and use the infinitive leer, you are making a general statement: 'It is fundamental to read the contract' (for anyone). By using que plus the conjugated verb leas, you are specifically saying that it is fundamental that you read it.

Question 4

Do I need to include tú and say que tú leas?

Accepted Answer

You can, but it is not necessary. The ending -s on leas already tells us that the subject is tú (informal you). Spanish speakers usually drop the pronoun unless they want to add special emphasis.

Es fundamental que leas el contrato.

Breakdown of Es fundamental que leas el contrato.

Questions & Answers about Es fundamental que leas el contrato.

Learn Es fundamental que leas el contrato and more in Spanish