Why is sometimes spanish longer?

Question

I'm curious

Longer than what? - LateToDinner, Oct 16, 2010

Answer 1

Do you mean where in English we would use a single adjective or adverb, but Spanish uses a phrase instead?

I think a lot of that is because most of these replies are given by Spanish students (with a limited vocabulary), not natives, or that the natives "tone down" their answers (use more common vocabulary) so that they will be understood.

If this site were geared more towards Spanish speakers learning English, I think that you would see just the opposite effect: where in English we might use a more esoteric adjective, a phrase of more common language would be used (just because English students have a limited English vocabulary.)

Answer 2

Following Qfreed's interpretation of your question and in agreement with what he said, I would support that with my experience in watching Spanish movies with English subtitles. It appears to me that the subtitles are usually longer than what the characters said in Spanish. So, modifying Qfreed's first sentence, I can also say that, "where in Spanish they would use a single adjective or adverb, in English they would use a phrase instead".

English is not my native language and I am just learning Spanish, that's why I used "they" in both phrases. I suppose also that my situation lends objectivity to my point of view.

You made some good points :) "adverb, in English they would use..." You don't need the but - FELIZ77, Oct 16, 2010

you could say "instead they would use..." or "In English they would use a phrase instead" - FELIZ77, Oct 16, 2010

Thanks, Feliz77. It came out that way because I was citing a part of Qfreed's statement, but at the same time reversing the point of view. I will correct it though. - Rikko, Oct 17, 2010

Answer 3

Then why is English sometimes shorter? But because this occurs only sometimes, then at other times English is apparently longer and Spanish is apparently shorter, so why is this? And the other question is, "shorter or longer than what?" I'm really confused! What about you?

Answer 4

I don't understand the question. Explain in more detail.