Breakdown of Se quiseres pagar em numerário, terás de sacar algum dinheiro primeiro.
querer
to want
em
in
se
if
o dinheiro
the money
ter de
to have to
pagar
to pay
algum
some
primeiro
first
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Questions & Answers about Se quiseres pagar em numerário, terás de sacar algum dinheiro primeiro.
What does numerário mean in this sentence?
In this context, numerário refers to cash—in other words, physical money such as coins and banknotes. It emphasizes that the payment method involves actual money rather than a card or digital transaction.
What does the phrase terás de imply grammatically?
Terás de is used to express obligation in the future. It translates to “you will have to” and indicates that if the condition is met (wanting to pay in cash), then a certain action (withdrawing money) becomes necessary.
Why is the verb form quiseres used here instead of another form?
The form quiseres is the second person singular (tu) subjunctive of the verb querer. It is used in informal contexts in European Portuguese. Using quiseres not only sets up a conditional (“if you want”) but also reflects the familiarity implied when addressing someone informally.
What does sacar mean in this sentence? Are there any regional differences to be aware of?
In this sentence, sacar means “to withdraw” (specifically money from a bank or ATM). While it is commonly understood, note that in European Portuguese the equivalent verb levantar is often used for withdrawing money. Be aware that sacar is more typical in Brazilian usage, though speakers in Portugal will still understand it in context.
What role does algum play in this sentence?
Algum is an indefinite adjective meaning “some.” In the sentence, sacar algum dinheiro translates to “withdraw some money.” It implies an unspecified amount that you need to take out before proceeding.
Why is there a comma after Se quiseres pagar em numerário?
The comma separates the conditional clause from the main clause. In Portuguese, just as in English, a comma is used to clearly divide the "if" part (Se quiseres pagar em numerário) from the result or consequence part (terás de sacar algum dinheiro primeiro), which improves the sentence’s clarity.