Question 1

Why is firmemos in the subjunctive here?

Accepted Answer

The phrase antes de que (before) always triggers the subjunctive. This is because it introduces an action that has not happened yet from the perspective of the main clause—the signing of the contract is still pending.

Question 2

Could I just use the infinitive and say antes de firmar instead?

Accepted Answer

Not in this sentence, because the person doing the action changes! The first part is about the supplier (el proveedor quiere), but the second part is about us (nosotros firmemos). When there is a change of subject, you must use antes de que plus the subjunctive. If the supplier were the one doing both the wanting and the signing, you would drop the que and use the infinitive: quiere ver la agenda antes de firmar (wants to see the agenda before signing).

Question 3

Does agenda mean the same thing in Spanish as it does in English?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but with an extra meaning to watch out for. In a business context like this, la agenda means a meeting agenda or schedule. However, in everyday Spanish, it also frequently refers to a physical daily planner, datebook, or diary.

Question 4

Why does proveedor have a double E?

Accepted Answer

It is formed from the verb proveer (to provide or supply) plus the ending -dor (which makes it a noun, like the "-er" in "provider"). You should pronounce both E's as distinct syllables (pro-ve-e-dor), though native speakers might blend them together slightly when speaking quickly.

El proveedor quiere ver la agenda antes de que firmemos el contrato.

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