Breakdown of Preciso de arrumar os livros na estante antes do jantar.
eu
I
precisar de
to need
o jantar
the dinner
em
in
o livro
the book
antes de
before
arrumar
to tidy up
a estante
the shelf
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Questions & Answers about Preciso de arrumar os livros na estante antes do jantar.
What is the English translation of the sentence "Preciso de arrumar os livros na estante antes do jantar"?
It translates as "I need to arrange the books on the shelf before dinner." This means that the speaker has to organize or tidy up the books prior to dinner time.
Why is the preposition "de" used in the phrase "Preciso de arrumar" instead of just saying "preciso arrumar"?
In European Portuguese, it is common to use the construction "precisar de" followed by an infinitive to express necessity. This structure functions similarly to the English "need to," linking the need with the action. So, "preciso de arrumar" correctly communicates that one needs to perform the action of arranging.
What is the role of the verb "arrumar" in this sentence?
"Arrumar" is used in its infinitive form and means "to arrange" or "to tidy up." It specifies the action that the speaker needs to carry out, following the expression of need given by "preciso de."
How is the contraction "na" in "na estante" formed, and what does it indicate?
"Na" is a contraction of "em" (meaning "in" or "on") and "a" (the feminine singular definite article). This contraction means "on the." In the sentence, "na estante" tells us that the books should be arranged "on the shelf."
How is the phrase "antes do jantar" structured, and what does it tell us about the timing of the action?
"Antes" means "before," and "do jantar" is a contraction of "de + o" (with "jantar" meaning "dinner"). Together, "antes do jantar" means "before dinner." It specifies that the books need to be arranged prior to the dinner time.
Are there alternative ways to express necessity in Portuguese for this sentence?
Yes, another common way is to use "tenho que" followed by an infinitive. For example, you could say "Tenho que arrumar os livros na estante antes do jantar," which translates to "I have to arrange the books on the shelf before dinner." While both structures communicate a need to perform the action, "preciso de" emphasizes personal necessity, whereas "tenho que" implies a stronger sense of obligation.