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Questions & Answers about Eu estou preocupado com o exame.
Why does the sentence begin with "Eu" even though the verb ending already indicates the subject?
In Portuguese, subject pronouns are often omitted because the verb conjugation makes the subject clear. However, “Eu” is sometimes included for emphasis, clarity, or to avoid ambiguity. In this sentence, it reinforces that I am the one experiencing worry.
Why is the verb estar used instead of ser when expressing worry?
The verb estar is used to describe temporary states or conditions, such as feeling worried. Ser typically describes permanent or inherent characteristics. Since worry in this context is a temporary emotional state, estar is the appropriate choice.
Does the adjective preocupado change if the speaker is female?
Yes, it does. In Portuguese, adjectives must agree in gender with the subject. If a female speaker were expressing this feeling, she would say, "Eu estou preocupada com o exame." The ending changes from -ado (masculine) to -ada (feminine).
What does the prepositional phrase "com o exame" mean, and why is com used instead of another preposition?
The phrase "com o exame" literally translates to “with the exam,” but in this context, it idiomatically means “about the exam,” indicating the source of worry. In Portuguese, adjectives like preocupado typically pair with the preposition com to link the emotion to its cause. Although English uses “about,” com is the standard complement in Portuguese for such adjectives.
Is it necessary to include the article "o" before exame, or can it be omitted?
Including the article "o" is necessary here because, in Portuguese, countable and specific nouns usually require a definite article. Omitting it would sound unnatural and be grammatically incorrect in this standard construction.