Eu fecho a torneira.

I close the tap.

Breakdown of Eu fecho a torneira.

• eu: I
• fechar: to close
• a torneira: the tap

Questions & Answers about Eu fecho a torneira.

What tense and person is the verb fecho in?

Fecho is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb fechar. This means it translates to "I close" or "I shut off," and its conjugation matches the subject eu (“I”).

Why is the definite article a used before torneira?

In Portuguese, nouns typically require an article. Torneira is a feminine noun, so the definite article a (meaning “the”) is used before it. This is similar to how gendered articles work in other languages.

Is it necessary to include the subject eu in the sentence?

No, it isn’t strictly necessary. Portuguese often omits subject pronouns because the verb conjugation clearly indicates the subject. However, including eu can add clarity or emphasis, which is especially helpful for learners.

How does the verb fechar compare to desligar when talking about turning something off?

Fechar literally means “to close” and is typically used for actions like shutting a tap, door, or window. Desligar, on the other hand, is more commonly used to mean “to switch off” or “to disconnect,” particularly for electronic devices. In the context of a tap, fechar is the standard choice.

What is the sentence structure of Eu fecho a torneira and how does it compare to English?

This sentence follows a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order: eu (I) is the subject, fecho (close) is the verb, and a torneira (the tap) is the object. This is similar to the sentence structure in English, which can help English speakers understand it more easily.

Are there any regional differences in how this action might be expressed in Portuguese?

Yes, while Eu fecho a torneira is standard in European Portuguese, some regional variations exist. In Brazilian Portuguese, for instance, the context might sometimes call for a different expression or even a different verb depending on the situation. However, this sentence is perfectly clear and correct in Portugal.