13 Comments
Why is "areas" not a correct answer here? Duolingo also offers that translation.
Because "area" may be more fitting in some cases. Your question misses the point, which was that duolingo offered this translation of the word, there is no context that would command to translate it with "region", so I expected it to be correct.
In some cases it can be accepted. Since this sentence is out of context, I believe it should
so singular it's región but plural is regiones, without the accent mark? What is the pattern for recognizing when to leave off the accent with a plural like this?
This happens because there is a general rule for the pronunciation of Spanish words and where the stress goes. An accent over a vowel means that vowel is stressed instead of the one that normally would be if there were no accent.
Example, words ending with an 'n' or an 's' or any vowel are usually stressed on the second-last syllable. But región has the stress on the O, so it needs the accent because otherwise the E would be stressed.
When it becomes regiones, the o is now the second-last syllable and thus is already stressed without need for accent. Get it?
>>When it becomes regiones, the o is now the second-last syllable and thus is already stressed without need for accent. Get it?<<
Thanks Iago ... makes sense the way you explained it.
you're a star - I've lost track of the number of simple common sense tips you've given in these comments lago, muchos gracias!
The other translations offered for "regiones" are "areas," "zones," and "districts." They are all pretty interchangeable and should be accepted as well.
