Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): O Pedro está desempregado, mas planeia candidatar-se também. - Pedro is unemployed, but he plans to apply as well.

In Portuguese, especially in Portugal, it’s common to use the definite article before a person’s name. O Pedro essentially means Pedro, but the article adds a formal or familiar nuance to the reference. It’s a standard convention in European Portuguese and does not change the basic meaning of the name.

What does desempregado mean, and how does the prefix des- function in this word?

Desempregado means unemployed. The prefix des- serves as a negation, turning the base word empregado (meaning employed) into its opposite. It directly indicates that Pedro is not employed.

How is the verb planeia used in this sentence, and what does it convey about Pedro's intentions?

Planeia is the third-person singular form of the verb planear, which means to plan. Although it’s in the simple present tense, in Portuguese this tense can imply a near-future intention. In the sentence, it tells us that Pedro intends to do something—in this case, apply for a position—even though he is currently unemployed.

Why is the verb candidatar-se written with a hyphen and a reflexive pronoun attached, and what does it mean?

Candidatar-se is a reflexive verb, indicating that the action of applying is being directed back at the subject. The attached pronoun se is essential for giving the verb its full meaning, similar to saying “to apply oneself.” In this context, it means to apply (typically for a job or position). In Portuguese, when an infinitive follows a conjugated verb—as it does after planeia—it’s standard to attach the reflexive pronoun to the end with a hyphen.

What does também add to the sentence, and why is its placement significant?

Também translates as also. It indicates that, in addition to being unemployed, Pedro is taking extra action—he is planning to apply. Its placement at the end of the clause underscores that applying is an additional step Pedro is considering, adding contrast or emphasis to his proactive attitude despite his unemployment.

What is the function of the conjunction mas in this sentence?

The word mas means but and is used to introduce a contrast. It links the fact that Pedro is unemployed with the contrasting idea that he is also planning to apply, highlighting the unexpected or proactive nature of his actions despite his current situation.