Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Fale devagar, senhor, para que eu possa entender cada palavra. - Speak slowly, sir, so that I can understand every word.

Fale is the formal imperative form of the verb falar (to speak) used when giving a command or request. In European Portuguese, when addressing someone with respect (here signified by senhor), the imperative is formed using the present subjunctive form. This is why fale appears instead of a more colloquial command form.

What does the adverb devagar mean, and what role does it play in the sentence?

Devagar means slowly. It functions as an adverb modifying the command fale, indicating that the person should speak at a slower pace. This ensures that the listener can catch every detail of what is being said.

Why does the sentence use the subjunctive form possa instead of the indicative posso?

The clause beginning with para que expresses a purpose—so that the speaker may achieve a particular result. In Portuguese, purpose or finality clauses introduced by para que require the subjunctive mood. Therefore, possa is used to reflect the intended possibility or desired outcome, rather than a statement of fact.

What is the function of para que in this sentence?

Para que means so that or in order that and introduces a subordinate clause that explains the purpose of the main action (speaking slowly). It connects the command to its intended result, which is to allow the speaker to understand every word.

Why is senhor set off by commas in the sentence?

Senhor is a formal term of address (equivalent to sir). In written Portuguese, direct addresses are typically separated by commas to indicate that the term is being used apart from the normal sentence structure. This punctuation helps clarify that the speaker is directly addressing someone with respect.

Is the use of fale along with the formal address senhor typical in European Portuguese, or does it differ in other varieties of Portuguese?

While both European and Brazilian Portuguese have formal imperative forms, the use of fale combined with senhor is especially common in European Portuguese to convey formality and respect. In Brazilian Portuguese, conversational speech often favors more informal constructions, and formal commands might be less frequently used in everyday interactions.