Learn Hardcore Portuguese (Portugal): Ele esforça-se para entender cada palavra. - He makes an effort to understand every word.

Esforça-se comes from the reflexive verb esforçar-se, which means “to make an effort” or “to strive.” In this sentence, it indicates that the subject (he) directs his effort toward a specific goal. Unlike English, which might say “he makes an effort,” Portuguese shows the reflexiveness by attaching the pronoun se to the verb.

Why is the reflexive pronoun se attached to esforça with a hyphen, and what is its significance?

In Portuguese, reflexive verbs attach the pronoun directly to the verb with a hyphen, forming an “enclitic” structure. This signals that the action of the verb reflects back on the subject (he is making the effort himself). This construction is a standard grammatical requirement in European Portuguese for reflexive forms.

What is the function of the preposition para in this sentence?

The preposition para introduces the purpose or aim of the effort. It translates as “to” or “in order to” in English, connecting the main action (esforça-se) with the goal expressed by the infinitive entender. Essentially, it shows that his effort is directed toward understanding each word.

How is the phrase cada palavra used, and what does it express?

Cada palavra literally means “each word.” The word cada means “each” or “every,” emphasizing that the effort is made to understand every single word. This indicates a detailed, step-by-step approach to comprehension.

Are there any differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese in terms of where the reflexive pronoun is placed in this type of sentence?

Yes, there can be slight differences. In European Portuguese, as shown in the sentence, the reflexive pronoun is typically attached after the conjugated verb (forming an enclitic structure). In Brazilian Portuguese, while the enclitic form is also common in affirmative sentences, speakers sometimes prefer placing the pronoun before the verb (proclisis) in different contexts, especially in negative sentences or when certain adverbs are present. However, in an affirmative declarative sentence like this one, both varieties might use the attached pronoun, with European Portuguese consistently favoring the enclitic form.