Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Se alguém esquecer a conta, podemos deixá-la para pagar depois. - If someone forgets the bill, we can leave it to pay later.

In Portuguese, object pronouns are often attached to an infinitive. In this sentence, a conta (a feminine noun) is the direct object, so the corresponding clitic pronoun is la. When a conjugated verb like podemos is followed by an infinitive, it is common to attach the pronoun to the end of the infinitive (creating an enclitic structure), hence deixá-la.

Why is there an accent on the á in deixá-la?

The accent on á maintains the proper stress of the verb after the pronoun is attached. Without the accent, the natural stress might shift or become unclear. According to Portuguese orthographic rules, when a pronoun is added to an infinitive, an accent is sometimes required to preserve the original pronunciation and stress pattern of the verb.

What does the word conta mean in this context?

In this sentence, conta most commonly refers to a bill—like the check you receive at a restaurant. Although conta can also mean an account or a computation, the context here implies it is about settling a bill later.

Why does the conditional clause use esquecer instead of a form like esquece or esqueça?

This is due to the use of the future subjunctive mood—a characteristic feature of Portuguese conditionals referring to future, uncertain events. In sentences like this, the verb in the “if” clause is put in the future subjunctive. For the verb esquecer, the future subjunctive form for "someone" is simply esquecer, which conveys the idea “if someone forgets.”

How does the phrase para pagar depois function in the sentence?

Para pagar depois is an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It literally means “to pay later” and indicates that if the bill is forgotten, the proposed solution is to postpone the payment. The construction para + infinitive is standard in Portuguese for conveying that a subsequent action is intended or planned as a consequence.