Breakdown of Quando algo inesperado acontecer, temos de manter a calma.
algo
something
quando
when
ter de
to have to
inesperado
unexpected
a calma
the calm
acontecer
to happen
manter
to maintain
Questions & Answers about Quando algo inesperado acontecer, temos de manter a calma.
Why is “acontecer” used instead of “acontece” in the clause “Quando algo inesperado acontecer”?
In Portuguese, time clauses introduced by “quando” that refer to an action which has not yet occurred use the future subjunctive. Although “acontecer” looks like the infinitive form, here it functions as the future subjunctive to indicate that the event is uncertain and has yet to happen.
What does the expression “temos de” mean in this sentence?
“Temos de” is a modal expression that means “we have to” or “we must”. It indicates an obligation or necessity, so the sentence is saying that when something unexpected happens, it’s necessary for us to keep calm.
Why is the verb “manter” in its infinitive form?
After modal expressions like “temos de,” the main verb is used in the infinitive form. In this case, “manter” remains unconjugated to clearly link it to the obligation expressed by “temos de,” much like saying “have to keep” in English.
Why is the definite article “a” used in the phrase “a calma”?
The article “a” is part of the idiomatic expression “manter a calma” in Portuguese, which translates to “keep calm” in English. Unlike English, where we simply say “keep calm,” Portuguese uses the definite article with “calma” as a standard part of the expression.
How does the clause “Quando algo inesperado acontecer” function within the sentence?
This clause is a temporal subordinate clause that sets the condition for the action in the main clause. It indicates that the obligation to “manter a calma” applies when an unexpected event occurs in the future, emphasizing that the action is contingent on that event.
How does the use of the future subjunctive in Portuguese compare to similar constructions in English?
In English, future events in time clauses are usually expressed with the present simple (e.g., “when something unexpected happens”). In Portuguese, however, when referring to uncertain or future events, the future subjunctive is used—hence “acontecer” instead of a present indicative form. This usage is a unique aspect of Portuguese grammar that can be challenging for English speakers.
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