Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): A Ana comprou cerveja na mesma loja, pois estava barata. - Ana bought beer at the same store because it was cheap.

In European Portuguese it’s common to include a definite article with personal names, especially feminine ones. So A Ana is a typical form used in Portugal, adding a familiar or emphatic tone compared to omitting the article.

Why is cerveja used without an article in this sentence instead of something like a cerveja?

When referring to a substance or product in general terms, Portuguese can drop the article. In this case, cerveja means “beer” in a generic sense rather than a specific bottle or brand, which is why no article is used.

How is na in na mesma loja formed, and what does it mean?

Na is a contraction of the preposition em (“in”) and the feminine singular definite article a (“the”). Therefore, na mesma loja means “in the same store.”

What is the role of the conjunction pois in the sentence, and how does it differ from porque?

Pois introduces a clause that explains the reason behind the action, similar to “because” in English. Although porque also means “because,” pois is often used in a more formal or written context to give an explanation.

To which noun does the adjective barata (cheap) refer, and how can we tell?

Both cerveja (beer) and loja (store) are feminine, so grammatically barata could modify either. However, context shows that Ana bought beer because it was inexpensive. Thus, barata most naturally describes cerveja.

What does mesma contribute to the meaning of loja in the sentence?

Mesma means “same” and emphasizes that Ana shopped at a store identical to one mentioned or known previously. It connects the current purchase to a familiar location.