Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Eu devo agir com cuidado.

It translates to "I should act with care" or "I must act with care." This sentence expresses an obligation or recommendation to behave cautiously.

Why is the verb "agir" in its infinitive form after "devo"?

In Portuguese, modal verbs like "dever" (of which "devo" is the first-person singular present form) are followed by the main verb in the infinitive form. This construction is similar to English where after "should" you use the base form, as in "I should act."

What does the modal verb "devo" mean and how is it used in this sentence?

The word "devo" comes from "dever" and it conveys a sense of obligation, necessity, or advisability. In this sentence, "devo" means "I must" or "I should," implying that it is important to act with caution.

What is the role of the phrase "com cuidado" in the sentence?

The phrase "com cuidado" functions as an adverbial phrase. It literally means "with care," explaining how the action of acting ("agir") should be performed. It emphasizes the need to be cautious.

Could one alternatively use the adverb "cuidadosamente" to express the same idea?