Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Entrar num lugar desconhecido pode ser assustador, mas também empolgante. - Entering an unknown place can be scary but also exciting.

It translates to "Entering an unknown place can be frightening, but also exciting." The sentence explains that while stepping into an unfamiliar area might evoke fear, it also carries the potential for excitement.

Why is the contraction "num" used instead of writing "em um"?

"Num" is a contraction of "em" (meaning "in") and "um" (meaning "a"). This contracted form is common in European Portuguese as it makes the sentence flow more naturally, similar to the way English speakers merge certain words for efficiency.

What does the phrase "pode ser" indicate in this sentence?

"Pode ser" literally means "can be". It is used here to express possibility, suggesting that entering an unknown place has the potential to be either frightening or exciting, depending on the situation.

How do the adjectives "assustador" and "empolgante" function in the sentence?

They describe contrasting emotional responses. "Assustador" means "frightening" or "scary", while "empolgante" means "exciting". By placing them in opposition with "mas" (meaning "but"), the sentence emphasizes that the experience can evoke both fear and excitement.

Why is there a comma before "mas também empolgante", and what does it contribute to the sentence?

The comma separates two contrasting ideas. It clearly demarcates the first part of the sentence, which deals with the potentially frightening aspect, from the second part, which highlights the exciting side. This punctuation helps to enhance clarity and reinforce the contrast between the two emotions.