Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Brazil): Depois da caminhada longa, todos nós ficamos com sede.

"Depois" means "after" in English. The word "da" is a contraction of "de + a", which is used because "caminhada" is a feminine noun. So, "Depois da caminhada longa" translates literally to "After the long walk."

Why is the adjective "longa" placed after "caminhada" instead of before it like in English?

In Portuguese, adjectives can either precede or follow the noun. Often when the adjective describes an inherent or objective characteristic—like the length of a walk—it naturally comes after the noun. Although English prefers "long walk," the order "caminhada longa" is common and natural in Portuguese. Note that saying "longa caminhada" is also correct, but it can subtly shift the emphasis.

What does "ficamos com sede" mean, and why is the verb "ficar" used here instead of verbs like "ser" or "ter"?

The phrase "ficamos com sede" means "we became thirsty" or "we got thirsty." The verb "ficar" is used to indicate a change of state or condition—in this case, transitioning into being thirsty. Using "ser" wouldn’t convey this sense of becoming, and while "ter sede" (to have thirst) exists, "ficar com sede" is the more common idiomatic expression in Brazilian Portuguese to describe the onset of thirst.

Why does the sentence include "todos nós" instead of just "nós"?

The phrase "todos nós" means "all of us." Including "todos" emphasizes that every member of the group experienced the same outcome, adding clarity and emphasis. Simply saying "nós" (we) would be correct, but "todos nós" stresses that it applied to everyone without exception.

Are there alternative ways to express this sentence, such as changing the order of "longa" and "caminhada"? If so, is there any change in meaning?

Yes, you could also say "Depois da longa caminhada." Both "caminhada longa" and "longa caminhada" are grammatically correct. The choice between them is mostly stylistic, with only a subtle shift in emphasis. Placing the adjective before the noun may highlight the quality of the walk slightly more, but the overall meaning remains the same.

Is there any nuance between saying "ficamos com sede" and using an adjective form like "ficamos sedentos"?

While "ficamos sedentos" is grammatically correct, "ficamos com sede" is the more common idiomatic expression in Brazilian Portuguese to indicate that someone got thirsty. The expression "com sede" is typically used in everyday language, whereas "sedentos" might be seen as more formal or less natural in the context of describing an everyday physical need after an activity like a long walk.