Breakdown of Mantener contacto visual con la máquina.
con
with
mantener
to maintain / to keep (a state or condition)
el contacto
the contact
la máquina
the machine
visual
visual
Questions & Answers about Mantener contacto visual con la máquina.
Why use the infinitive Mantener instead of a command like Mantén or Mantenga?
This sentence uses an independent infinitive. In Spanish, the infinitive is often used on its own to give impersonal instructions, particularly in writing like manuals, recipes, or safety signs. It conveys a command to the general public or user without needing to address a specific person.
Does contacto visual mean "eye contact"? Why not use the word for eyes (ojos)?
Yes, contacto visual is the standard way to say "eye contact" in Spanish. While English uses the noun "eye", Spanish relies on the adjective "visual". Trying to translate it literally as "contacto de ojos" would sound unnatural to a native speaker.
Why is there no article before contacto visual, like un or el?
Could I use the impersonal se to give this instruction instead of the infinitive?
Absolutely. You will often see alternatives like Se debe mantener contacto visual (One must maintain...) or the formal imperative with the passive se, Manténgase contacto visual. However, the standalone infinitive is very popular in bulleted lists and quick instructions because it is the most direct and shortest option.
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