Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Fala com calma, por favor, não é necessário falar tão rápido. - Speak calmly, please, it’s not necessary to speak so fast.

Fala is the imperative form of the verb falar (to speak). In European Portuguese, using fala implies giving a direct, informal command to someone (with the implied subject tu), meaning “speak” or “talk.”

What does com calma mean and why is it used here?

Com calma literally translates as “with calm” and functions adverbially to mean “calmly.” It advises the listener to speak in a relaxed and unhurried manner, setting the tone for a gentle request rather than a strict order.

What role does por favor play in this sentence?

Por favor means “please” and is used to add politeness and soften the command. Its inclusion makes the request more courteous and friendly, transforming an imperative into a polite suggestion.

What does the clause não é necessário falar tão rápido imply?

This clause means “it is not necessary to speak so fast.” Rather than using a negative imperative (like “don’t speak so fast”), it explains that speaking quickly isn’t required, which further reinforces the gentle, advisory nature of the sentence.

Why is tão used before rápido, and is rápido functioning as an adverb here?

Tão is an intensifier meaning “so,” which emphasizes the degree of speed referred to by rápido. Although rápido appears as an adjective, in contexts like this it functions adverbially to modify the verb falar. In more formal language, the adverb rapidamente might be expected, but in everyday speech rápido is perfectly acceptable.