2

I am learning Spanish with Collins Easy Learning Spanish. It gives the follow example:

The stairs are over there. = Las escaleras están allí.

The stairs are over there, to your right. = La escalera está allí, a su derecha.

Why does one use the plural form (están) and the other the singular form (está)? I thought stairs would have to be in the plural, so shouldn't it always be están?

1
  • 1
    As both answers posted so far point, escalera is as correct as escaleras, hence la escalera está and las escaleras están. Which one to choose is a matter of taste (and local variations) rather than correction.
    – Rafael
    May 22, 2016 at 19:57

2 Answers 2

5

Both work fine. Escalera can be used in the singular — equivalent to staircase— or the plural —equivalent to stairs

escalera (DRAE 23.ª ed.)
1. f. Conjunto de peldaños o escalones que enlazan dos planos a distinto nivel en una construcción o terreno, y que sirven para subir y bajar. U. t. en pl. con el mismo significado que en sing.

That note at the end of the definition says "used also in the plural with the same meaning as in the singular".

3

Escalera is one of those annoying words that are used as a singular or a plural noun. See DRAE:

  1. f. Conjunto de peldaños o escalones que enlazan dos planos a distinto nivel en una construcción o terreno, y que sirven para subir y bajar. U. t. en pl. con el mismo significado que en sing.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.