Question 1

How does the meaning change if I remove the commas around que está en el centro?

Accepted Answer

The commas make this a non-defining clause, meaning you are talking about one specific flat and just adding a side note about its location. Without commas, it becomes a defining clause: "The flat that is in the center." This would imply you are choosing between multiple flats and specifying exactly which one is really expensive.

Question 2

Could I use el cual instead of que here?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in clauses set off by commas that just add extra information, you can use either que or el cual. However, que is much more common in everyday spoken Spanish, while el cual sounds a bit more formal or literary.

Question 3

Since the flat's location is permanent, why don't we use es instead of está?

Accepted Answer

When talking about physical location, you must always use estar, regardless of whether the location is temporary or permanent. The only major exception to this rule is for events (like a concert or a party), which use ser to indicate where they take place.

Question 4

In Spain, is there a difference between a piso and un apartamento?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In Spain, piso is the standard, everyday word for a flat or apartment that someone lives in as their main residence. An apartamento usually refers specifically to a smaller holiday home or a tourist rental, often near the beach.

Question 5

Does carísimo mean exactly the same thing as muy caro?

Accepted Answer

They both mean "very expensive," but using the -ísimo ending (an absolute superlative) adds more emotional emphasis or slight exaggeration. It sounds stronger, more conversational, and more expressive than just saying muy caro.

El piso, que está en el centro, es carísimo.

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