Breakdown of O Pedro queixa-se de dores no pé, mas ele ainda quer arranjar-se para a festa.
Pedro
Pedro
de
of
querer
to want
ele
he
mas
but
em
in
para
for
ainda
still
a dor
the pain
queixar-se
to complain
o pé
the foot
a festa
the party
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Questions & Answers about O Pedro queixa-se de dores no pé, mas ele ainda quer arranjar-se para a festa.
Why do the verbs “queixa-se” and “arranjar-se” include the reflexive pronoun “se” attached with a hyphen?
In Portuguese, many verbs are pronominal, meaning they require a reflexive pronoun to complete their meaning. In “queixa-se,” the “se” indicates that Pedro is complaining (about his own condition), while in “arranjar-se,” it implies he is getting himself ready for the party. The hyphen linking the pronoun to the verb is a standard grammatical rule in Portuguese.
Why is Pedro’s name mentioned in full in the first clause but then replaced by “ele” in the second?
After introducing Pedro as the subject with his full name (“O Pedro”), it is common in Portuguese (as in English) to use a pronoun (“ele”) in subsequent references. This helps avoid repetition and keeps the sentence fluid while maintaining clear reference to the same person.
What does the phrase “arranjar-se para a festa” mean?
“Arranjar-se para a festa” means “to get ready for the party.” Although the base verb “arranjar” can mean “to arrange” or “to fix” in other contexts, when used reflexively like this it conveys the idea of preparing oneself.
How does the hyphen work with reflexive pronouns in Portuguese verbs like these?
In Portuguese, reflexive pronouns are attached to the verb with a hyphen to indicate that the verb and pronoun function as a single unit. This rule is essential for the correct formation of pronominal verbs such as “queixa-se” and “arranjar-se,” ensuring that the reflexivity of the action is clearly marked.
What does “dores no pé” translate to in English?
“Dores no pé” translates to “foot pain” or “aches in the foot.” It indicates that Pedro is experiencing discomfort in his foot.