Breakdown of Tu queres café ou água, por favor?
tu
you
o café
the coffee
a água
the water
querer
to want
por favor
please
ou
or
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Questions & Answers about Tu queres café ou água, por favor?
What is the literal English translation of Tu queres café ou água, por favor?
It translates to "Do you want coffee or water, please?" This sentence is a polite question offering a choice between two drink options.
What does the pronoun tu signify in this sentence?
Tu is the informal second-person singular pronoun. In European Portuguese, it is used when addressing someone with whom you’re on familiar or casual terms.
Why is the verb queres conjugated in this particular form?
Queres is the second-person singular present tense form of querer (to want). It agrees with tu and is used in informal settings, making it appropriate for everyday conversation in Portugal.
What function does ou serve in the sentence?
Ou means or. It is used to present the two available options—coffee or water—so that the listener can choose one.
How does the phrase por favor contribute to the sentence?
Por favor means please. Placing it at the end of the sentence adds politeness to the question, making the request more courteous.
Why are there accent marks in café and água, and what do they indicate?
The accent in café indicates that the stress falls on the final syllable (kah-FEH), while the accent in água clarifies the vowel sound and correct syllable stress. These marks are essential for ensuring proper pronunciation in Portuguese.