Question 1

Why do we use the infinitive conocer here instead of a conjugated verb?

Accepted Answer

Because this is an impersonal rule, which ties into this lesson's focus. When an expression like es obligatorio, es necesario, or es importante states a general rule for everyone (rather than aiming it at a specific person), you follow it directly with an infinitive.

Question 2

I thought "knowing how to do something" used saber. Why do we use conocer here?

Accepted Answer

That's a great catch! You would use saber if it were followed by an infinitive verb (like knowing how to operate it). However, because this sentence is followed by a noun—el funcionamiento (the functioning/operation)—we must use conocer. You are literally saying "to be familiar with the operation."

Question 3

Could I rephrase this sentence so that it actually uses saber?

Accepted Answer

Yes! To use saber, you just need to change the noun phrase into a verb phrase. You could say Es obligatorio saber cómo funciona el telar (It is mandatory to know how the loom works) or Es obligatorio saber operar el telar (It is mandatory to know how to operate the loom).

Question 4

How would this sentence change if a manager was aiming this rule specifically at me, rather than it being a general sign?

Accepted Answer

If the obligation is directed at a specific person, you drop the independent infinitive, add que, and use the subjunctive. It would become Es obligatorio que conozcas el funcionamiento del telar (It is mandatory that you know the functioning of the loom).

Es obligatorio conocer el funcionamiento del telar.

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