Why is it "montar en bicicleta" Why do we use "en"?

Question

Do words put together make a different word then if you would say them separately in Spanish?

I edited your post for grammar and spelling so that people will understand what you are asking. - mountaingirl123, NOV 9, 2009

Answer 1

Welcome to the world of learning Spanish!

One thing that you will notice is that the exact words in Spanish and English are not always the same. Sometimes there may be expressions that make would make no sense if you were to translate them directly to English. (By the way, we have lots of these in English, too! Just think about the word "o'clock"; that's kinda strange, don't you think?).

Anyway, "bicicleta" obviously means "bike". In Spanish, the verb "montar" is used when a person is riding on top of something; it is used with the expression "to ride a horse" ("montar en caballo") and also with the expression "to ride a bike".

Why is it "montar en bicicleta"? One of the things that you will notice is that some things just are the way they are. Languages are not always logical. Don't let it bother you that the expression has the word "en" in it! Just enjoy learning Spanish. Study hard, take notes in class, listen carefully to your teacher...and soon you will be able to make friends with people who speak Spanish!

You are so great at these explanations, Mountaingirl. - --Mariana--, JUN 4, 2010

Answer 2

Spanish1take, It is mandatory that you use correct punctuation and grammar on this site. We are happy to help you but it is important to follow the forum rules. Believe me, you will learn as you go and this is not to discourage you. As for your question, it is a little tough to follow. If I am getting you right, you want to know if the words make a difference if placed in a different order? If you mean does "montar en bicicleta" mean to ride a bike then yes it means that. Montar is in the infinitive form and would be translated into whatever pronoun you are using. Check out the dictionary and conjugation page as well as the translation feature on this site. It is a good one!! Happy learning!!!

Answer 3

en means In , but there are no word for "On" in spanaish like"abran la luz" means "Open the light" Insted of where in English we say "Turn on the lights." Theres just no word for On in spanish to simply put it. =]

Answer 4

"En" means at, in or on- so really it could mean "To ride on a bicycle" (en=on)

Answer 5

Yes, montar en bicicleta means to ride a bicycle.